20+ Exciting Jobs After Teaching

Many teachers in the country are using their teaching experience to move into a new career. If you want a less stressful job, a better work-life balance, or a new challenge, we can help. Let’s explore different career options that you could choose from. We’ll also help with some tips to prepare for a smooth and successful transition.

Understanding the Transition from Teaching

Leaving the teaching profession can feel scary. For many teachers, education is more than just a job. It’s a vocation – a way of life. If you’ve reached the point of reading this blog, we know you didn’t arrive here lightly.

Hopefully, it’s reassuring to hear that your skills are very valuable. Many employers appreciate the useful skills that teachers have. If you can handle a classroom of kids, you can handle anything! Your skills as a teacher are varied and many – communication, organisation, leadership, and the ability to explain difficult things clearly.

The change may feel tough. We can’t sugar coat that fact. With careful planning and the right tools though, you can start a new career and find job satisfaction outside of the school gates. Your new job can bring you more happiness, less stress, better pay and still use your current skills. Seriously.

Why Do So Many Teachers Consider a Career Change?

Teaching can feel very rewarding. However, it can also be a stressful and often underpaid job. Teachers work many hours planning lessons, marking work, and doing other tasks. This can hurt your work-life balance. As a result, you may find you have little time for your personal life and self-care.

Many teachers are sadly unhappy. The wellbeing score for teachers in the UK is almost 10 points less than other professions! This often comes from limited chances to grow in their careers and their pay. It is important to think about what parts of your job are most important to you. Doing this will help you decide if a change could lead to more job satisfaction.

Knowing what drives you is the first step to making a career change. Whether you want a better work-life balance, more freedom at work, or a higher salary, understanding your motivations is key.

Leaving teaching requires a shift in mindset

Leaving a job, especially one as challenging as teaching, can feel very hard for your feelings. It can be tough to picture yourself in new jobs after teaching or career path. Staying positive can really help you through this change.

Think about the years you’ve worked hard to learn new skills. Many jobs need these skills. Look at this opportunity to explore new options. Focus on the exciting paths that are open to you.

See this change as a chance to grow and start over. You have the skills and drive to succeed. With the right support, you can start a new chapter with jobs after teaching.

Identifying Transferable Skills Teachers Have

As a teacher, you have valuable skills that are useful outside the classroom. Your strong communication skills come from many years of explaining ideas to different students. These skills are in high demand in many areas.

Managing a classroom shows that you have good organisational skills and can manage your time well. These skills are important for handling several tasks and meeting deadlines in any job.

Your leadership skills, patience, and ability to adapt to new situations are very important for any new career you choose. Here’s a list to start your brainstorming:

Management and Leadership

• Decision-making: Making informed decisions quickly and effectively.
• Resource allocation: Efficiently using available resources.
• Conflict resolution: Mediating disputes and finding solutions.
• Teamwork: Collaborating with colleagues and students.

Communication and Education

• Public speaking: Delivering clear and engaging presentations.
• Written communication: Crafting reports, emails, and other documents.
• Active listening: Understanding and responding to others’ needs.
• Instructional skills: Teaching and training others.

Analysis and Organisation

• Data analysis: Interpreting data to inform decisions.
• Organisational skills: Managing time and resources effectively.
• Problem-solving: Identifying issues and developing solutions.
• Critical thinking: Analysing situations logically and creatively.

Personal and Emotional

• Empathy: Understanding and sharing the feelings of others.
• Patience: Remaining calm and composed under pressure.
• Adaptability: Adjusting to new situations and challenges.
• Motivation: Inspiring and encouraging others.

Marketing and Technical

• Digital literacy: Using technology effectively.
• Social media management: Engaging with audiences online.
• Project management: Planning and executing projects.
• Marketing skills: Promoting ideas and initiatives.

Preparing for a New Career Path

Before beginning a new career, it’s key to prepare for a smooth transition. Think about what you truly want from your job after teaching. Consider how your current skills can support you in this change.

Think about what you like and what your career goals are. Decide how you want your life to be. Explore different fields and jobs that catch your eye. See if you need any extra qualifications.

Assessing Your Interests and Skills

To change your career successfully, you should consider what you love and what makes you feel excited. Think back to what inspired you to be a teacher. Was it your passion for a subject, the joy of working with kids, or the desire to make a difference?

Maybe you have a hobby or interest you have wanted to try. You can look at your skills and how they connect to your passions. This can help you find your career goals.

This is your chance to build a career path that matches what you really want and brings you joy. Don’t hold back. Dream big!

The Importance of Networking in Your Career Shift

Networking can really help if you want to find the best jobs after teaching. Start by reaching out to old colleagues, school friends, or anyone you know in the fields you like. LinkedIn is a great platform to connect with people in the industry you want to join. You can also stay updated on trends and find job opportunities there.

Going to industry events, workshops, or online webinars is a good way to meet new people. You can build relationships and learn about different jobs and companies. When you share your career goals and background, you may find new opportunities that you didn’t expect.

Don’t forget that networking works both ways. It is important to help others. You should also be open to learning from their experiences.

Alternative Careers for Former Teachers

The skills you learned as a teacher are helpful for many other jobs, so feel free to explore! You might consider working in human resources, training and development, or managing projects.

Many people find success in freelance writing and editing jobs after teaching. Their good communication skills help them a lot in these areas.

What You Need to Get Started

There are many jobs you can do without extra qualifications. However, the CV you use for jobs after teaching should highlight your experience. It should explain how the skills you gained in the teaching profession make you a good fit for the position.

If you are thinking about a big career change, you might need to take some courses. These courses can help you get the knowledge and skills you need for your new job.

Talk to a career coach who knows what skills are important for different jobs. They can help you find the right roles for yourself. A career coach will also support you as you move to a new position. They can give you good advice and help you format your CV and cover letter. This way, you can stand out in the job market.

Want some inspiration? Read our guide to changing career when you don’t know what you want to do.

Exploring New Opportunities

Taking a clear approach can make changing careers easier. First, look into different job options that catch your attention. It’s important to talk to people in the field you want to join. They can give you useful insights.

• Step 1: Look into Job Choices
• Step 2: Boost Your Skills and Qualifications
• Step 3: Gain Experience by Volunteering or Working a Part-time Job
• Step 4: Refresh Your CV for New Positions
• Step 5: Prepare for Interviews in Different Fields

If you stick to these steps and put in the effort, you will get closer to a rewarding new role.

Step 1: Research Alternative Career Options

Taking the step into a new career requires smart thinking and research. Begin by exploring industries and jobs that you find interesting. Websites for job listings, networking, and career help offer a lot of details about your job options.

Look carefully at job descriptions. Notice the skills and qualifications required for the jobs that interest you. Doing this research will show you what you need to learn or improve. It will help you decide if you need to retrain or keep learning.

Think about how many years you have worked hard to build your skills as a teacher. Now is the time to use that same energy to find new and exciting job paths that make you feel happy.

Step 2: Upgrade Your Qualifications & Skills

Your teaching skills are helpful for many jobs. However, some careers may need more qualifications or certifications. Check what your desired jobs require. You might need to complete more training programs.

There are lots of online and part-time courses available! These let you learn new skills while you keep your job. This helps make changing jobs simpler. Look for programs that are known and respected in your area. Make sure they fit your career goals.

Improving your skills helps you find jobs. It also shows that you care about moving up in your career. Plus, it shows you are prepared for new challenges.

Step 3: Gain Experience Through Volunteering or Part-time Work

Volunteering or working part-time is a good option if you want experience in a new field. It helps you use your skills in different situations and learn more about the industry.

When you volunteer, you can grow your network for work. You may meet mentors who can help you later. They might provide references when you look for paid jobs. Choose opportunities that match your interests and career path. This way, you can make the most of your time volunteering.

Getting work experience in the field you want is important. It doesn’t matter if it’s a temporary job or unpaid work. This shows employers that you are committed and passionate. This can help you land your new job.

Step 4: Update Your CV for non-teaching roles

When you apply for jobs after teaching, you need to show how your skills and experience in the classroom relate to the new field. Begin by tailoring your CV for each job. Look at the job description to find key terms. This will help you show that you understand what the job requires.

• Highlight your transferable skills.
• These include communication, leadership, problem-solving, and time management.
• Give clear examples of how you used these skills as a teacher.
• Connect these skills to the job requirements.

Think about using a functional CV format instead of a chronological one. It can help you highlight your skills and accomplishments. This format focuses more on what you can do rather than just your teaching experience. Many recruiters may not understand teaching well, so this approach can help them recognise the value you offer.

Step 5: Prepare for Interviews Outside the Education Sector

Interviews in the corporate world can feel different from what you are used to in education. If you are entering this sector, it’s beneficial to look up common interview questions for the job you want. Practice your answers. This way, you can easily explain your skills and experience to employers.

Be prepared to explain why you are leaving teaching. Share what skills you can bring to another job. Give clear examples of how you adjust to changes. Show that you are eager to learn. Also, explain how your experience makes you a strong choice for the position.

• Show your strong communication skills.
• Speak clearly.
• Make eye contact.
• Engage with the interviewers with excitement.
• Highlight your love for this new field.
• Show how ready you are to help out.

Top Alternative Career Paths for Ex-Teachers

The skills you have learned as a teacher can open up several job opportunities. Many former teachers succeed in roles that require strong communication and organisation skills, as well as a passion for sharing knowledge.

Your experience in the classroom can help you do well in new jobs after teaching, like in corporate training and publishing.

Here are some popular jobs after teaching that can often be helpful and rewarding…

1. Corporate Training & Development

Corporate training and development jobs are a wonderful option for teachers who want to apply their skills in a dynamic business environment. In these roles, you’ll make and present training programs. These programs aim to assist employees across various departments. This way, they can gain the skills needed to excel in their work.

Your skills in making fun lesson plans and dealing with different learning styles will help a lot in creating and managing good training programs. Checking to see if people understand is also important in this process.

Your ability to create a positive and supportive learning space will really help in company settings.

2. Educational Consultant

If you want to help improve education but prefer a job with more independence, consider being an educational consultant. This satisfying job lets you use your skills to assist schools, education groups, or even single students.

As an educational consultant, you can give advice on making curriculums, grading methods, or running classrooms. If you have experience as a primary school teacher, your knowledge will be useful for helping teachers and improving education outcomes.

This flexible career path offers you freedom and different experiences. It also lets you make a real difference in the lives of students and teachers.

3. Publishing & Editing

If you enjoy language and notice details, a job in publishing or editing might suit you well. Your English skills, gained from creating lesson plans and checking essays, provide a strong foundation for these types of jobs after teaching.

Publishing companies usually search for people who are good at grammar, enjoy reading, and can arrange and enhance written work.

As an editor, you will notice details that make sure everything is clear. You will help keep things direct and fix any mistakes.

4. Museums & Cultural Institutions

If you enjoy arts and culture, your teaching experience can open doors in museums, galleries, and historical sites. Many of these places seek people with strong communication skills and a good educational background. They need someone who can connect with visitors and share knowledge excitedly.

As a museum educator or tour guide, you can make fun tours and workshops. You help bring history and art alive for many different people.

Your ability to talk to people and explain hard ideas in a simple way is important for these jobs after teaching. You can also create a fun place for learning, which would be very helpful.

5. Project Manager

Project management can be hard, but it can also feel rewarding for former teachers. If you have strong organisation and leadership skills, this job might be for you. As a project manager, you will guide projects from their beginning to their completion.

You will plan and budget. You will also schedule and talk with stakeholders. This will help keep the project on track and meet its goals.

Your experience in managing classrooms, planning activities, and supporting students’ success works well in the fast-paced world of project management.

6. Human resources

A job in Human Resources (HR) could be a good fit for you if you enjoy working with people. HR departments are key in businesses. They take care of employee relations, recruitment, training, and company policies.

Your strong people skills are helpful. Your ability to communicate clearly is also important. Plus, your experience in mentoring others will be great for these jobs after teaching.

Your skills in solving problems and creating enjoyable onboarding experiences will help you do well in HR.

7. Publisher

If you enjoy writing and can communicate well, consider a job in publishing. Having experience in reviewing and giving feedback on written work will be useful for this career.

As a publisher, you will play a key role in making books a reality. You will choose manuscripts, handle editing, and collaborate with authors.

Your ability to stay organised, focus on details, and meet deadlines will be very important for success in the busy field of publishing.

8. Instructional Designer

Instructional design is a growing field. There is a high demand for people who can create curriculums and use technology to enhance learning. As an instructional designer, you will create engaging and helpful learning materials and courses for various platforms.

Your ability to create lesson plans, use different learning styles, and apply technology in class will make it easy for you to succeed in this job.

If you enjoy making new ways of learning and have a passion for technology, consider exploring instructional design.

9. Event Planner

A job as an event planner can be fun and fulfilling. If you are good at organisation, manage your time well, and notice details, you will do great. As an event planner, you will handle all parts of events. Your job is to make sure everything goes well.

Your teaching experience helps you handle tough tasks. You can adjust to new situations and perform well when things get stressful.

No matter if you are planning conferences, corporate events, or weddings, your creativity and smart thinking will stand out. This work is quick and always changing, and your focus on details will show.

10. UI/UX Designer

If you love technology and want to make simple digital products, being a UI/UX designer could be great for you. In this job, you will pay attention to how users feel when they use websites and apps.

Your teaching experience has shown you how people learn. It has helped you understand how they connect with information. You can use this understanding to make digital products that are easy to use and meet what people need.

If you want to learn more about user experience and new technologies, consider taking a course in UX/UI design.

11. Data Analyst

In today’s digital world, a lot of people want jobs in data analytics. This job involves collecting and studying large amounts of data. It allows companies to discover patterns and insights that help them make better choices.

Teachers usually have strong problem-solving skills. They think logically and know how to use spreadsheets and data analysis tools well. This means they are good choices for data analytics jobs after teaching.

If you enjoy working with numbers and like to gather data insights, then a career in data analytics could be a great fit for you. You will need strong analytical skills for this job.

12. Software Developer

The tech industry is always in search of talented individuals who enjoy coding and tackling problems. This leads to the development of new technologies and opens up opportunities for those willing to learn new skills. Shifting from teaching to software development may feel like a big leap, but many of your current skills can be helpful in this new job.

Your skill to think clearly, understand difficult ideas, and fix problems is really important in this area.

There are many online coding boot camps and courses for people with little or no experience. These short programs help you learn the skills you need. They can make you a good coder and help you start a great career in software development.

13. Change Manager

Change management is really important for organisations that are evolving and facing new challenges. Change managers support people and teams during these periods. They ensure that everyone accepts and adjusts to new systems, processes, or ways of working.

Your ability to lead and feel for others, along with your strong communication skills from teaching, will make you a natural fit for this role.

You can explain complex information in a simple way. You pay attention to people’s concerns and create a welcoming space. This will help a lot when facing the challenges that come with change in the organisation.

14. Teacher Trainer

Do you have experience in secondary education or a subject you excel in? If you enjoy helping teachers, consider using your skills in teacher training. Your knowledge and real-life practice from the classroom can support new teachers a lot.

Roles in teacher training can vary. You might mentor new teachers at schools. Or, you could work with universities and teacher training groups.

By sharing what you know and your passion for teaching, you can help new teachers grow in their careers with your effective teaching methods. This is a great fit for anyone who wants to remain in the education field.

14. Corporate learning & development

Corporate learning and development is a good job option for former teachers who want to use their skills. This area focuses on helping employees improve. It does this by making and providing training programs. These programs teach important skills like leadership, communication, and technical knowledge.

Your experience in lesson planning, curriculum development, and creating learning activities will help you a lot in this job.

Your understanding of how people learn in different ways, how to check what they understand, and your skill in creating a great learning environment will help you create effective development programs for businesses.

15. Private Tutor

Private tutoring is a fantastic option if you enjoy helping students one-on-one. As a tutor, you can choose your own hours and select the subjects you want to teach. You can create a schedule that fits your needs.

Many parents search for ex-teachers. They believe these teachers have good experience. They feel these teachers have the skills to help their children improve in school.

Online tutoring is now very popular. This is because there are more online tools and websites available. It gives tutors more freedom to choose their schedules. It also lets them connect with more students.

16. Academic Advisor

Universities and colleges have academic advisors to support students with their studies. As an academic advisor, you will help students pick their courses, plan their degree programs, and look into careers. You will provide them with the tools and resources they need to do well.

Your experience with young people will be really useful for this job. You will give counselling and support them in achieving their goals.

You will be a mentor and a supporter for students. You will help them through hard times. You will also guide them to grow in their personal and work lives.

17. Youth Worker

Youth work is a good career fit for people who enjoy helping young people. If you want to make a positive change in their lives, this could be the right path for you. Youth workers guide and support kids and teens. They help them learn important life skills, build strength, and manage the challenges they encounter.

Your classroom experience and understanding of how young people grow can be a great fit for this job. It combines social work with helping the community.

Youth work can be hard, but it is very rewarding. You can really change the lives of young people. You help them reach their full potential.

18. Technical Writer

If you are good at making hard information easy to understand, you may enjoy being a technical writer. Technical writers make user manuals, online help guides, and training materials for many different fields.

Your ability to explain difficult ideas to students and write easy-to-understand instructions will benefit you in this job.

Technical writing requires careful attention to detail. You need to be accurate. It is also important to present complicated information simply so that everyone can understand.

19. Career Coach

For those who enjoy assisting others with their career goals, being a career coach is a wonderful option. In this role, you can support people at various stages of their careers. You will help them discover their strengths and interests. You will also guide them through job changes to achieve job satisfaction.

Your experience as a teacher will be great for this job. Your skills in giving support and advice will really help.

A career in coaching allows you to combine your passion for helping others with your knowledge of the job market. You can help people achieve their career goals.

20. Content Creator or Educational Blogger

If you enjoy a specific topic or love to share your ideas, you might want to become a content creator or an educational blogger. This will let you use what you know and connect with more people.

Social media and online publishing tools help you easily share your ideas. They allow you to create fun content and connect with others who care about your message.

You can build a following and show that you are an expert in your area. You may also make money through ads, sponsorships, or by selling educational products or services.

21. Opportunities in EdTech Start-ups

The world of education keeps changing. More EdTech start-ups are appearing. These companies seek people with teaching experience. They want individuals who can make learning better by using technology.

As a former teacher, you have useful experience from the classroom. You understand different teaching methods and want to improve learning. These skills make you a great fit for these new companies.

If you want to work in EdTech start-ups, there are many choices for you. You can work in curriculum development, instructional design, or educational consulting. These options can help you create a dynamic and meaningful career path.

22. Freelancing & Self-Employment Ideas

Teaching experience gives you a good foundation if you want to work for yourself. You learn many helpful skills throughout your career. A lot of former teachers succeed as freelance writers, tutors, or educational consultants. They use what they know to offer useful services on their own terms.

Freelancing allows you to be your own boss. You can create your own schedule and pick projects that you enjoy. Take this opportunity to control your career.

Recommended Courses & Certifications

Continuous learning is very important for your growth. It helps you be flexible in your job, especially after teaching. You can take online courses or join workshops to improve your skills. Getting certifications can also help you have a better skillset and stay competitive.

When you put money into your job development, you show you want to keep up with what’s happening in your field. You also want to learn new things that will help your career.

The courses and certifications you choose should match your career path. Many online platforms offer various choices for your professional growth. You can explore options like digital marketing and project management.

If you are considering a specific job, check out professional groups in that area. They often have helpful resources and may offer certificates that employers accept. This can make you look more trustworthy and boost your chances of getting a job.

Investing in yourself means you are also investing in your future. When you learn new skills and stay updated, you help yourself succeed later on.

Build a Professional Network in Your New Field

Building a good professional network is key for growing your career and finding new chances in your area. You can go to industry events, join online groups, connect with people on LinkedIn, and join discussions.

Don’t be afraid to speak with people for informational interviews. This can help you learn about their jobs. You can also get useful tips about certain jobs or companies.

Making real connections and building relationships with other professionals can create new opportunities. It can also provide solid support and enhance your career path.

Final thoughts…

Changing from teaching to a new career can open up several paths with many chances. You can find success by knowing your transferable skills and interests, and by connecting with other people. There are several options, such as corporate training, educational consulting, or jobs in technology like EdTech.

It’s important to keep updating your qualifications and gaining experience. Make sure to adjust your CV for jobs after teaching. It’s time to embrace the challenges ahead, explore new possibilities, and use your teaching experiences to do well in this exciting new phase of your career.

Ask us anything…

What are the first steps I should take when considering leaving teaching?

If you want to leave the teaching profession, begin by assessing yourself and making a plan. Spend some time thinking about why you want to leave. Examine your skills in detail. Look into other job options that interest you. Additionally, plan how you will make this transition in a way that works for your finances and career.

How can I identify which alternative career fits me best?

Finding a good career takes time and hard work. You need to think about your strengths, interests, and values. Start with a career assessment. Look into different types of jobs after teaching. Consider how a job will help you balance work and life. Also, think about if it will make you happy in your job.

Are there specific sectors that value ex-teacher skills more?

Many industries value the skills that former teachers bring. Skills such as communication, leadership, and organisation are important in many jobs after teaching. Because of this, ex-teachers are useful in different fields.

What are common challenges when transitioning out of teaching?

Transitioning from teaching can involve moving to a new place and discovering different work settings. You may also have to adjust to a new salary. It is important to grow your resilience, seek support, and maintain a positive attitude. These factors are key to managing these challenges effectively.

Can I return to teaching after pursuing a different career?

Yes, you can go back to teaching after taking a break. Just make sure your teaching qualifications are current. You might also need to update your skills or take some courses to fit today’s teaching job needs.

What is the best job for a former teacher?

The best job for a former teacher depends on what they are good at, what they like, and their career goals. You should find jobs that fit your interests. These jobs can provide personal happiness and opportunities for growth in your career.

How can I retrain for jobs after teaching?

There are several ways to get ready for a job outside of education. First, find courses or certifications that match the field you want to enter. You can also consider attending workshops or taking online classes. These options will help you develop the skills needed in today’s job market.

How can one effectively market their teaching experience on their resume for non-teaching jobs?

Highlight your teaching experience by showcasing your transferable skills. These skills include communication, leadership, planning, and organisation. Use clear examples in your resume to demonstrate how you have applied these skills. Make sure to present these examples in a way that impresses recruiters when you’re looking for jobs after teaching.