This week’s Pit Pony Podcast is a bit different - it’s just Sharon and Sarah, no guest, but lots of honesty, insight and real talk.

We’re kicking off a three-part mini-series by tackling one of the biggest foundations of protecting yourself at work: knowing your rights.

From understanding the Burgundy Book and STPCD (NB Sarah had a little moment and forgot that the ‘S’ stands for ‘School’!), to decoding part-time contracts, directed hours, capability procedures, and those "informal support plans" (spoiler: they're not really a thing) - we’re arming you with the knowledge you need.

We also get a bit feisty about the dangers of assuming your school will always do the right thing - and how knowing your legal rights can empower you in tough situations.

This is a must-listen if you're still in teaching, navigating challenges, or planning your exit.

Subscribe and hit the bell so you don't miss it - and if you found this helpful, leave a comment or share it with a teacher who needs to hear it.

With thanks to our episode sponsors (Click to visit their websites):

Conexus Tuition 

Little Voices

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If you've been affected by any of the issues raised in our podcast there are organisations who can help:

• Education Support
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• Mind
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Thanks for listening 🙏

Edited with finesse by our Podcast Super Producer, Mike Roberts of Making Digital R...

In this sixth edition of our beloved Sliding Doors Stories, we bring you three powerful moments from guests who, after leaving the classroom, found clarity, connection and joy in unexpected places.

✨ Katie Stone shares how her relationship with her daughter transformed – and how a trip to New Zealand gave her children a once-in-a-lifetime experience (and a new dream for Archie!).

 💖 Sarah Cowan reflects on how one spontaneous weekend with her niece became a treasured memory – something she never could have said yes to while teaching.

🌱 Ruth O’Neill shows us how the relationships she’s now able to build with families go beyond teaching – into deep, meaningful connections, lasting impact, and even holidays in North Wales.

With thanks to our episode sponsors (Click to visit their websites):

Conexus Tuition 

Little Voices

Buy Us a Coffee ☕️

Loving the Pit Pony Podcast? We’d be so grateful for your support! We’ve set up a Buy Me a Coffee page where you can make a small donation to help keep the podcast running.

https://buymeacoffee.com/thepitponyclub

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Contribute to our 'Silenced by Support' Campaign - complete the questionnaire, read the report, sign up to the mailing list.

If you've been affected by any of the issues raised in our podcast there are organisations who can help:

• Education Support
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• Mind
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Thanks for listening 🙏

Edited with finesse by our Podcast Super Producer, Mike Roberts of Making Digital R...

In this special episode of The Pit Pony Podcast, we’re turning the spotlight inward. For the first time, co-host Sharon Cawley shares her own powerful and deeply personal sliding doors story.

More than just about leaving teaching, it’s about the moment Sharon reclaimed control of her life and showed what’s possible when we choose presence over pressure. Sharon reflects on how life outside of the classroom gave her the time, space and freedom to show up when it mattered most.

Today, Sharon and Sarah explore the power of gratitude, glimmers, and choosing to live consciously after life-altering decisions. This episode is raw, reflective, and a beautiful reminder of why our small daily choices shape our biggest transformations.

🎧 For anyone at a crossroads - this one’s for you.

With thanks to our episode sponsors (Click to visit their websites):

Conexus Tuition 

Little Voices

Buy Us a Coffee ☕️

Loving the Pit Pony Podcast? We’d be so grateful for your support! We’ve set up a Buy Me a Coffee page where you can make a small donation to help keep the podcast running.

https://buymeacoffee.com/thepitponyclub

Voice Message Us: https://www.speakpipe.com/pitponypodcast

Contribute to our 'Silenced by Support' Campaign - complete the questionnaire, read the report, sign up to the mailing list.

If you've been affected by any of the issues raised in our podcast there are organisations who can help:

• Education Support
• The Samaritans
• Mind
• Andy's Man Club

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• Sign up to our mailing list here: http://eepurl.com/i1L5ck

Thanks for listening 🙏

Edited with finesse by our Podcast Super Producer, Mike Roberts of Making Digital R...

In this episode, we’re joined by the unstoppable Ilana King - educational consultant, entrance exam specialist, home educator, and all-round powerhouse.

Ilana’s journey is far from typical. After just two years in the classroom, she knew it wasn’t the right fit - and rather than settle, she built something new. Literally. She created her own nursery from the ground up (on land she negotiated with a secondary school), ran it successfully, then sold it and pivoted again. She home educated her three children for 20 years and now sits at the heart of the tuition community, supporting families through 7+, 8+, and 11+ entrance exams and training other tutors to do the same.

This episode is a masterclass in self-belief, values-led decisions, and building a career on your own terms. Whether you’re still in the classroom or already planning your escape, Ilana’s story will show you what’s possible when you refuse to be boxed in.

Highlights include:

• Why she walked away from teaching after just two years
• The toxic school culture that helped her make up her mind
• Building and running two nurseries before age 30
• Why she home educated her children — and how
• The secrets of the selective school entrance exam world
• Creating a sustainable, empowering tutoring business

Ilana didn’t just leave teaching - she rewrote the script.

You can find Ilana here:

Website: Become An Entrance Exam Tutor 

Linkeding:  https://linkedin.com/in/educationpathfinder

Instagram @ilana_trainsentranceexamtutors

With thanks to our episode sponsors (Click to visit their websites):

Conexus Tuition 

Little Voices

Buy Us a Coffee ☕️

Loving the Pit Pony Podcast? We’d be so grateful for your support! We’ve set up a Buy Me a Coffee page where you can make a small donation to help keep the podcast running.

https://buymeacoffee.com/thepitponyclub

Voice Message Us: https://www.speakpipe.com/pitponypodcast

Contribute to our 'Silenced by Support' Campaign - complete the questionnaire, read the report, sign up to the mailing list.

If you've been affected by any of the issues raised in our podcast there are organisations who can help:

• Education Support
• The Samaritans
• Mind
• Andy's Man Club

Join Us:

• Subscribe to the Pit Pony Podcast
• Sign up to our mailing list here: http://eepurl.com/i1L5ck

Thanks for listening 🙏

Edited with finesse by our Podcast Super Producer, Mike Roberts of Making Digital R...

This week, we’re joined by the brilliant and unassuming Peter Scholes – a man who gave 21 years to the classroom before stepping away when shifting leadership turned a once-thriving school culture into something unrecognisable.

In this heartfelt episode, Pete shares how the sudden departure of a beloved headteacher triggered a school-wide unraveling, leading to mass staff turnover, a loss of trust, and ultimately, his own departure. Now a successful driving instructor and published author, Pete talks openly about depression, rediscovering confidence, and the transferable skills that still shape his life today.

✨ It’s a powerful reminder that when one door closes, others truly do open – sometimes with a pen in one hand and car keys in the other.

📚 Links to Pete’s books can be found here

 

Don’t miss this one.

With thanks to our episode sponsors (Click to visit their websites):

Conexus Tuition 

Little Voices

Buy Us a Coffee ☕️

Loving the Pit Pony Podcast? We’d be so grateful for your support! We’ve set up a Buy Me a Coffee page where you can make a small donation to help keep the podcast running.

https://buymeacoffee.com/thepitponyclub

Voice Message Us: https://www.speakpipe.com/pitponypodcast

Contribute to our 'Silenced by Support' Campaign - complete the questionnaire, read the report, sign up to the mailing list.

If you've been affected by any of the issues raised in our podcast there are organisations who can help:

• Education Support
• The Samaritans
• Mind
• Andy's Man Club

Join Us:

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Thanks for listening 🙏

Edited with finesse by our Podcast Super Producer, Mike Roberts of Making Digital R...

In Part 2 of this powerful conversation, Rob Newlands takes us through the devastating fallout of his time in headship - and the turning point that changed everything.

After months of isolation, impossible expectations, and systemic failure, Rob faced a brutal mocksted that delivered the final blow. What followed was a silent breakdown behind closed doors, a desperate call to his GP, and the realisation that he had to leave the profession to survive.

Rob shares the raw truth about what it feels like to hit rock bottom - the shame, the self-doubt, and the guilt so many teachers carry when they can no longer keep going. But this is also a story of recovery, purpose, and the surprising path he found on the other side of education.

This episode is a lifeline for anyone who’s been made to feel they’re “not enough,” despite giving everything they had. If you've ever questioned your worth, your resilience, or your ability to start again - Rob’s story is for you.

Useful links :

Facebook: Rob Newlands- Financial Planner | Falmouth

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/robnewlands.dswm/

Dean Stevens Wealth Management: https://www.deanstevenswm.co.uk/

With thanks to our episode sponsors (Click to visit their websites):

Conexus Tuition 

Little Voices

Buy Us a Coffee ☕️

Loving the Pit Pony Podcast? We’d be so grateful for your support! We’ve set up a Buy Me a Coffee page where you can make a small donation to help keep the podcast running.

https://buymeacoffee.com/thepitponyclub

Voice Message Us: https://www.speakpipe.com/pitponypodcast

Contribute to our 'Silenced by Support' Campaign - complete the questionnaire, read the report, sign up to the mailing list.

If you've been affected by any of the issues raised in our podcast there are organisations who can help:

• Education Support
• The Samaritans
• Mind
• Andy's Man Club

Join Us:

• Subscribe to the Pit Pony Podcast
• Sign up to our mailing list here: http://eepurl.com/i1L5ck

Thanks for listening 🙏

Edited with finesse by our Podcast Super Producer, Mike Roberts of Making Digital R...

In the first of this two-part special, we meet Rob Newlands, a former headteacher who climbed the leadership ladder quickly - only to face a stark and painful reality at the top.

At just 30 years old, Rob stepped into a headship in Cornwall, full of energy, purpose, and a belief that he could make a difference. But what awaited him was far from the job he signed up for. From day one, Rob was met with missing policies, no induction, and the expectation to lead full-time while also teaching full-time… and that was just the start.

In Part 1, Rob walks us through the impossible conditions he faced - covering everything from safeguarding and site maintenance to the challenges of running a school with rising SEND needs and no structural support. His story is a raw and powerful account of what happens when passionate leaders are left to sink or swim with no safety net.

This episode shines a light on systemic failings, the mental toll of unsupported leadership, and the unravelling that can occur when cries for help go unanswered. 

Rob’s honesty and humility make this an unforgettable listen.

Rob's links :

Facebook: Rob Newlands- Financial Planner | Falmouth

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/robnewlands.dswm/

Dean Stevens Wealth Management: https://www.deanstevenswm.co.uk/

With thanks to our episode sponsors (Click to visit their websites):

Conexus Tuition 

Little Voices

Buy Us a Coffee ☕️

Loving the Pit Pony Podcast? We’d be so grateful for your support! We’ve set up a Buy Me a Coffee page where you can make a small donation to help keep the podcast running.

https://buymeacoffee.com/thepitponyclub

Voice Message Us: https://www.speakpipe.com/pitponypodcast

Contribute to our 'Silenced by Support' Campaign - complete the questionnaire, read the report, sign up to the mailing list.

If you've been affected by any of the issues raised in our podcast there are organisations who can help:

• Education Support
• The Samaritans
• Mind
• Andy's Man Club

Join Us:

• Subscribe to the Pit Pony Podcast
• Sign up to our mailing list here: http://eepurl.com/i1L5ck

Thanks for listening 🙏

Edited with finesse by our Podcast Super Producer, Mike Roberts of Making Digital R...

Loving the Pit Pony Podcast?

Buy Us a Coffee ☕️

Kitty White never imagined she’d leave teaching - she was in it for life. 

But after years of battling anxiety, disillusionment, and a crushing sense of being lost, she made a brave leap out of the classroom and into something completely different. 

In this powerful episode, Kitty reflects on the emotional toll teaching took on her, how she slowly rebuilt herself, and how she found new purpose (and peace) as the Business Development Manager of Cozy Holiday Cottages in the Yorkshire Dales.

Her story is full of raw honesty, gentle humour, and hope - and reminds us that it’s never too late to choose yourself.

Useful links :

Website - https://cozyholidaycottages.co.uk/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/cozyholidaycottages/

- - - - - -

💚 This episode is proudly sponsored by the National Teaching and Advisory Service (NTAS) a brilliant organisation supporting children and young people not in mainstream education through one-to-one teaching. If you’re a teacher looking for a more flexible, meaningful way to use your skills outside the classroom, NTAS are always looking for passionate professionals to join them.

Buy Us a Coffee ☕️

Loving the Pit Pony Podcast? We’d be so grateful for your support! We’ve set up a Buy Me a Coffee page where you can make a small donation to help keep the podcast running.

https://buymeacoffee.com/thepitponyclub

Voice Message Us: https://www.speakpipe.com/pitponypodcast

Contribute to our 'Silenced by Support' Campaign - complete the questionnaire, read the report, sign up to the mailing list.

If you've been affected by any of the issues raised in our podcast there are organisations who can help:

• Education Support
• The Samaritans
• Mind
• Andy's Man Club

Join Us:

• Subscribe to the Pit Pony Podcast
• Sign up to our mailing list here: http://eepurl.com/i1L5ck

Thanks for listening 🙏

Edited with finesse by our Podcast Super Producer, Mike Roberts of Making Digital R...

What happens when a dedicated teacher realises that the career she once loved is no longer the right fit? In this episode, we sit down with Rachael Daniel, who made the bold decision to step away from teaching and carve out a new path.

Rachael takes us through the highs and lows of her transition - from the moment she knew she had to leave, to the doubts that nearly held her back, and the surprising opportunities that opened up once she took the leap. She shares how she navigated financial fears, rediscovered her confidence, and built a career that aligns with her values and passions.

Expect raw honesty, practical advice, and plenty of inspiration for anyone considering a major career shift. If you’re feeling stuck in a job that no longer serves you, Rachael’s story might just be the nudge you need.

🎧 Listen now and get ready to rethink what’s possible.

A big shout-out to our sponsor, Full of Beans!

If you’re a teacher looking for a new direction but still want to make a difference in children's lives, Full of Beans could be the perfect opportunity. They offer sports and fitness coaching for kids, helping to build confidence, teamwork, and a love of movement. Whether you're looking for a full-time career shift or a flexible side hustle, Full of Beans is always on the lookout for passionate educators who want to inspire the next generation.

Check them out in the show notes or visit their website HERE to learn more!

Buy Us a Coffee ☕️

Loving the Pit Pony Podcast? We’d be so grateful for your support! We’ve set up a Buy Me a Coffee page where you can make a small donation to help keep the podcast running.

https://buymeacoffee.com/thepitponyclub

Voice Message Us: https://www.speakpipe.com/pitponypodcast

Contribute to our 'Silenced by Support' Campaign - complete the questionnaire, read the report, sign up to the mailing list.

If you've been affected by any of the issues raised in our podcast there are organisations who can help:

• Education Support
• The Samaritans
• Mind
• Andy's Man Club

Join Us:

• Subscribe to the Pit Pony Podcast
• Sign up to our mailing list here: http://eepurl.com/i1L5ck

Thanks for listening 🙏

Edited with finesse by our Podcast Super Producer, Mike Roberts of Making Digital R...

This week on The Pit Pony Podcast, we sit down with the incredible Grant Decker – a former teacher whose love for music led him to open his own record shop. After years in the classroom, supporting students with complex needs, Grant realised it was time for a change.

In this episode, he shares his inspiring journey from education to entrepreneurship, the challenges of balancing work and family, and how he built a thriving business from his passion for vinyl.

Thinking about your own exit strategy? 

Grant’s story is proof that it can be done!

Useful links :

https://linktr.ee/vinylshakedownrecords

https://www.facebook.com/vinylshakedown

https://www.instagram.com/vinylshakedown

_ _ _ _ _ _ _ 

P.S. Big shoutout to our sponsors, the National Teaching & Advisory Service (NT&AS), who do incredible work supporting children who aren't in mainstream education. They provide one-to-one teaching, working with young people who need that extra bit of care, whether they're in foster care, have additional needs, or just need help getting back on track. If you're a teacher looking for a change but still want to make a difference, they are always on the lookout for passionate educators. Check out ntas.org.uk and see how you can get involved!

Buy Us a Coffee ☕️

Loving the Pit Pony Podcast? We’d be so grateful for your support! We’ve set up a Buy Me a Coffee page where you can make a small donation to help keep the podcast running.

https://buymeacoffee.com/thepitponyclub

Voice Message Us: https://www.speakpipe.com/pitponypodcast

Contribute to our 'Silenced by Support' Campaign - complete the questionnaire, read the report, sign up to the mailing list.

If you've been affected by any of the issues raised in our podcast there are organisations who can help:

• Education Support
• The Samaritans
• Mind
• Andy's Man Club

Join Us:

• Subscribe to the Pit Pony Podcast
• Sign up to our mailing list here: http://eepurl.com/i1L5ck

Thanks for listening 🙏

Edited with finesse by our Podcast Super Producer, Mike Roberts of Making Digital R...