Lessons learnt since leaving the classroom

Leaving mainstream teaching was one of the biggest decisions I’ve ever made. Like many teachers, I was passionate about education, but the relentless workload, increasing administrative tasks, and lack of flexibility took their toll. Now, after stepping away from the traditional classroom and embracing private tutoring, I’ve gained invaluable insights into teaching, family life, and my own well-being. Here’s what I’ve learned along the way:

1. I have more quality family time

One of the most immediate and rewarding changes has been the impact on my family life. In mainstream teaching, evenings and weekends were often consumed by marking, lesson planning, and school-related stress., not to mention all the extra-curricular activities I needed to attend, like school discos, netball matches, parents evenings, etc. Now, I can truly be present with my family.

I no longer feel the guilt of missing bedtime stories or rushing through meals to meet deadlines. I have the flexibility to arrange my schedule in a way that prioritises both my career and my loved ones. This shift has strengthened my family relationships and given me a deeper appreciation for work-life balance.

2. My connection with children has deepened

In a traditional classroom, managing 30 or more students means you can only give so much attention to each child. The pressures of behaviour management, data collection, and curriculum constraints can sometimes make it difficult to form meaningful relationships with students.

As a private tutor, I can focus on each child as an individual. I’ve learned to tailor my teaching methods to suit different learning styles, and I’ve witnessed first-hand the confidence and progress that one-to-one support can bring. This personalised approach has allowed me to build stronger, more meaningful connections with the children I teach, which has been incredibly fulfilling.

3. My work-life balance has dramatically improved

Mainstream teaching often demands long hours that extend well beyond the school day. Since transitioning to tutoring, I have control over my schedule. I decide when and how much I work, allowing me to balance my professional commitments with personal time.

I no longer experience the same level of burnout that was once a constant presence in my life. Instead, I can dedicate time to my own interests, professional development, and, most importantly, rest. This balance has made me a better educator and a happier person overall.

4. My mental wellbeing has flourished

The mental strain of mainstream teaching is significant. The pressure to meet targets, handle large class sizes, and keep up with endless administrative tasks can lead to exhaustion and anxiety. Since leaving, my mental wellbeing has improved dramatically.

I feel more in control of my career, and the stress that once weighed me down has lifted. I’ve rediscovered my love for teaching in an environment that allows me to focus on what truly matters—helping children learn and grow without the bureaucracy and pressure of the traditional system.

5. I’ve discovered a new sense of purpose

Leaving mainstream education has not meant leaving teaching behind. Instead, I’ve found a renewed sense of purpose in supporting children in a way that aligns with my values. Whether it’s helping a struggling learner gain confidence in maths or supporting a neurodivergent child in a way that the mainstream system couldn’t, I now see the direct impact of my work every day.

I’ve also had the opportunity to connect with parents more closely, offering them guidance and reassurance about their child’s learning journey. This level of involvement and trust is something I rarely had time for in a busy school setting.

So, would I ever go back?

While I will always value my time in mainstream education and the lessons it taught me, I know that leaving was the right decision for me. The freedom, flexibility, and deeper connections I’ve gained have reaffirmed my love for teaching in ways I never expected.

For any teachers considering a change, my advice would be this: explore your options, prioritise your well-being, and don’t be afraid to take a leap. There is life beyond the classroom, and for me, it has been a fulfilling and transformative journey!

Further reading and support

If you’re a teacher considering a transition or a parent looking for personalised support for your child, I’d love to help. Get in touch to learn more about private tutoring options tailored to your child’s needs.