“I’m not prepared to give up any more of my personal life” 

After spending 12 years teaching in special needs schools, Assistant Head Rachel loved working with children and young people but found herself frustrated by the lack of resources available to support them and overwhelmed by the impact of teaching on her home life. 

Joining the Academy in April 2023, Rachel went on to land herself a part-time role with children’s charity Barnado’s, and poured her additional time and energy into setting up a business that aligned with her passions and specialist expertise. Now running a successful therapeutic yoga business working with young people, Rachel is loving a life of flexible working, the ‘best bits’ of teaching, and exciting plans for the future. 

In this episode, we’re exploring:

• Riding a roller-coaster of emotion
• Being signed-off sick (and attempting to return to the classroom)
• Battling feelings of ‘it must be me’
• Decision paralysis whilst burnt out 
• Enjoying collective support from people who understand the journey
• Seeking meaning in new career options
• Business-building security
• The practicalities of setting up a local business 
• Making worthwhile connections
• Term-time travel! ✈️

Links:

Rachel’s website:

https://www.discoveringcalm.co.uk/ 

Opportunities at Barnado’s:

https://www.barnardos.org.uk/jobs-at-barnardos 

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.