Former History Teacher and Head of Sixth Form, Kirsty loved her school but was fed up with the constraints of teaching … working long evenings and regular weekends, as well as having no flexibility around holidays. 

Now working in Consultancy (with an epic job title that you won’t want to miss!), in this episode Kirsty details her journey out of the classroom, from “feeling my way around in the dark by myself” to using networking, work experience opportunities and the support of the Academy to help secure her new dream role. 

We also explore:

• Leaving before burnout 
• Dealing with the overwhelm of job hunting
• Taking ‘messy action’ to get started
• The benefits of finding a like-minded community 
• Being attracted to sales roles - creativity and reward!
• Braving phone calls
• The power of LinkedIn
• Different styles of interview
• Opportunities for Maths teachers in the actuarial space
• Enjoying continuous learning, freedom and her first holiday outside of term time!

If you're looking for step-by-step support to find and secure a new job or start your own business, check out the Adventures After Teaching Academy which will help you successfully leave the classroom! 

Thinking about leaving teaching? Sign up for our new free webinar 💛 Leaving teaching in 2026 for your roadmap to leaving the classroom next year - delivered straight to your inbox on 27th December.