Amy MacDonald is a former primary school teacher turned forest school leader and curriculum writer. With over 14 years of teaching experience, Amy now channels her passion for outdoor learning and environmental education into her work with wildlife charities and community interest companies. Her innovative approach combines her love for nature with her dedication to child development, empowering young learners to explore, grow, and thrive in natural settings. Amy’s inspiring journey showcases the power of embracing change and aligning work with personal passions.

Mindfulness Performance Coach | Athletic Mental Performance | Men's Wellbeing Specialist | Certified Mindfulness & Compassion Teacher

Grant Decker is a former teacher with 15 years of experience, known for his passion for working with students with additional needs and creating innovative, student-centered learning environments. After years of balancing education with his love for music, he transitioned from the classroom to pursue his dream of running Vinyl Shakedown Records, a thriving independent record shop in Leicester. Now, he channels his energy into building a community through music while keeping one foot in education, always ready to support young people in meaningful ways.

Hollie Jones is a dedicated neurodiversity practitioner, passionate educator, and advocate for workplace equity and inclusion. 

With a background in teaching, Hollie transitioned into her current role after experiencing firsthand the challenges of navigating the education system as a neurodivergent professional. 

Now working within the Educational Psychology Service, she supports schools, staff, students, and families in creating more inclusive learning environments.

Ilana King is an education consultant specializing in private school admissions, tutoring, and supporting families navigating the 7+, 8+, and 11+ entrance exams. With a background in early years education and a passion for personalized learning, she has built a thriving career outside the traditional classroom. Ilana is also a leader in the tutoring community, offering training and guidance to help other educators succeed in the competitive world of entrance exam preparation.

James Terry is living proof that life after teaching can be wildly fulfilling. Once an RE teacher with a knack for captivating a classroom, James ultimately swapped chalkboards for chapels, becoming a celebrated civil celebrant who brings warmth and wit to every ceremony. 

After a whirlwind journey through the worlds of supply teaching, bus driving, and exam marking, James found his true calling, helping families honour their loved ones in uniquely heartfelt ways. 

Known for his natural storytelling flair and a voice that brings even the stiffest crowd to tears (of joy or otherwise), James has quickly gained a reputation as the go-to celebrant for those looking for a ceremony with both depth and delight.

Jane Lloyd is a talented artist based in Wales, who transitioned from a 14-year teaching career to pursue her lifelong passion for art. Specialising in pet portraits, limited edition prints, and community workshops, Jane has built a thriving business that combines her creativity with her dedication to inspiring others. Alongside her artistic pursuits, she collaborates with schools and local organisations, creating unique projects and fostering a love for art in her community. Jane’s journey is a testament to the power of resilience, self-belief, and following your dreams.

Katie Stone is a former primary school teacher turned entrepreneur and the founder of Katie Stone PA, a thriving virtual assistant agency specialising in supporting education businesses. After exiting the classroom due to work-related stress and an informal support plan, Katie used her organisational skills, multitasking abilities, and passion for efficiency to build a successful business that helps others streamline their workload.

A champion of flexibility and work-life balance, Katie is dedicated to empowering former teachers and business owners to reclaim their time and focus on what they do best. Today, she leads a growing team of virtual assistants, providing expert support to educators, consultants, and entrepreneurs.

Kitty White is a former primary school teacher who began her teaching career in 2014, believing she was in it for life. After leaving the profession in 2020 due to burnout and disillusionment, she took time to rebuild her confidence and mental health. She is now thriving as the Business Development Manager at Cozy Holiday Cottages in the Yorkshire Dales.

Voice Artist and Content Creator

project manager for the digital data and technology team at the children's charity, Barnardo's

Mark Thompson is a former teacher with over 18 years of experience in computing and business studies. After leaving the classroom in 2011, he transitioned into an exciting new role as a tutor and chaperone for young actors on TV and film sets, including working on CBBC. 

Passionate about education, Mark ensures his students thrive academically while balancing the unique demands of the entertainment industry. His inspiring journey highlights resilience, adaptability, and the power of pursuing new opportunities.

Helping Children's Activity Providers and Tutors create inclusive and accessible programs by offering practical strategies and training | 1:1 Support and Bespoke Training Packages.

Paul Lennon is a former PE teacher and senior leader who spent 28 years in secondary education, working in schools across the UK and internationally. After facing workplace bullying in his final teaching role, he transitioned to the NHS, where he now coaches and supports emergency call handlers. His story highlights resilience, career reinvention, and the impact of workplace culture on well-being.

Rachael Daniel is a former teacher who made the bold leap from the classroom to a new career that aligns with her passions and values. 

After years of dedication to education, she realised it was time for a change and set out to build a more fulfilling future. 

Now, she shares her journey to inspire others who are ready to break free and redefine their own success.

Copywriter, editor, proofreader🖋️ Writing engaging web, print and social media content that tells your story 📝 Editing and proofreading that enhances your writing ✒️ CopywriteRight Founder✈️ Persephone Travels Founder

Rob Newlands is a former headteacher who rose rapidly through the education system after starting his career in civil engineering. 

Known for his dedication and integrity, he led a small school through major challenges before reaching breaking point. After leaving teaching due to work-related stress, he rebuilt his life and career with courage and clarity. 

Rob now works as a financial adviser, using the very interpersonal skills once called into question to support others with empathy and expertise.

Ruth O’Neill is a former English teacher and SENCO who transitioned from the pressures of the classroom to a fulfilling career as a SEND consultant and English tutor. With over 20 years in education, including international teaching roles in Cairo and Costa Rica, Ruth developed a deep passion for supporting students with special educational needs. Now, she works directly with families, helping them navigate EHCP applications, access arrangements, and SEND support, while also delivering one-to-one English tuition. Ruth has built a business that allows her to make a meaningful impact—without the burnout of mainstream education.

Sarah is the Head of Domestic Abuse Services, leading a team that supports vulnerable individuals and families. Drawing from her background in education, she brings empathy, advocacy, and a deep understanding of trauma into her role. Her journey from a profession that consumed her to one that empowers others is a testament to the power of self-reflection, courage, and reclaiming personal identity.

Vicky Thurkettle is a former assistant head teacher who spent 11 years in the classroom before making the bold decision to leave education and pursue her passion for chocolate.

Now the founder of Rawsome Chocolate, a plant-based, ethically sourced chocolate brand, Vicky combines her love for food and a commitment to sustainability. She’s a proud mom of twins, one of whom has cerebral palsy, and her journey from teaching to chocolate-making is as heartwarming as it is inspiring.