Has a career in teaching left you feeling burnt-out? You’re not alone. Many educators find themselves exhausted after a few years in the classroom.
A lifelong teaching career isn’t for everyone.
If you feel stuck in a teaching job you no longer enjoy, don’t worry. You have a variety of desirable skills, and there are plenty of jobs for former teachers. It’s possible to find a less stressful, higher-paying position.
It is helpful to have a few ideas in mind before you begin your job search. Keep reading to learn more about the best jobs for teachers who don’t want to teach. Before you know it, you’ll have a career you love.
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Reasons to Make a Career Change
If you’re unsatisfied with your current teaching position, it’s time to make a change. Switching careers can feel scary at first. It’s important to trust that things will work out in the end.
There are many reasons why you might be unhappy. Here are some of the most common job-related complaints from teachers:
- Lack of free time
- Stress
- Not enough work-life balance
- Small salary
- Too many different expectations to satisfy
- Dissatisfaction with required teaching methods
Imagine how much better you will feel when you can once again find balance in your routine. You will experience less stress and improve your overall wellness. There will be more free time to spend with family and friends.
If you successfully apply for a new job, your income potential will soar. It is well known that teachers are often underpaid and overworked. You deserve a salary that rewards you fairly for your knowledge, skills, and effort.
Perhaps you are frustrated by the multiple sets of requirements you are forced to meet. Satisfying all of them at once can feel impossible. There are lots of job options for former teachers where you only report to one supervisor.
As an educator, you are well prepared to do so many things. As you embark on your job search, remember that you are an asset to any company. Try to remain confident with that knowledge as you move forward.
Let’s take a look at some important things to consider before you explore job options for former teachers.
Things to Consider Before Making a Career Change
There’s no shortage of great career changes for teachers, but forging a new path requires some planning. You want to make the right choice, after all. Here is a list of questions to ask yourself as you ponder what comes next.
How Will This Change Affect Me Financially?
Although teaching salaries are often below average, they do offer financial stability. Knowing that you can expect a monthly paycheck provides a sense of security. There is value in feeling certain that your bills will be paid on time.
Consider whether your new career will improve your financial situation. There are high paying jobs for former teachers if that’s what interests you. On the other hand, freelancing income can be unpredictable.
Will I Feel Fulfilled in a Different Career?
Many people enter the teaching field because they desire a meaningful career. Will you feel fulfilled in your new job? Will you be challenged enough? If not, it’s a good idea to reconsider your options.
Will My Career Change Affect My Loved Ones?
When you change jobs, you will have a different schedule. This can affect your family, especially if you have children. Factors such as salary, benefits, and paid time off can also change your lifestyle.
Give these topics some thought before you jump into a new role.
What Will I Have to Give up for a New Career?
Even if you are unhappy working as a teacher, there are things you like about the job. What will you miss?
If you enjoy working with children, other careers offer that opportunity.
Maybe you love your extended summer holidays. Think about which careers provide flexibility. Some jobs even allow you to travel the world while you work.
As you look for a new job, try to find one that maintains some of the perks you appreciate most.
Popular Jobs for Former Teachers
Here is a list of popular second careers for teachers. These jobs require the knowledge and skills you already have, even if you don’t realize it yet!
1. Teach English as a Foreign Language
Teaching English as a foreign language offers flexibility and opportunities for cultural exchange. If you love to travel and meet people from other countries, this could be the job for you.
Earning your TEFL certification online is simple and affordable. Look for an internet-based position or station yourself in a place you’ve always wanted to visit. You don’t even need to be fluent in the local language to succeed in this career.
2. Become a Private Tutor
Online or in-person private tutoring positions can be very lucrative. Parents are willing to pay a premium if it means their children will succeed in school.
Work independently or for an agency to provide support in the subjects you are most familiar with.
3. Work With Kids as a Nanny
If you love working with children, but you’re tired of the classroom, why not work as a nanny? You can let go of curriculum requirements and focus on creating a nurturing environment for your charges.
Some nanny positions even offer a chance to live abroad with the family that employs you.
4. Apply for an Outdoor Education Position
If being stuck inside is what’s getting you down, explore outdoor education jobs. You can apply your stellar teaching skills to help kids build confidence. They will acquire outdoor skills they can enjoy for life, and you will appreciate the fresh air.
5. Do Youth Work
Pursue a career in youth work and you’ll inspire young people to be their best every single day. As a former teacher, your experience working with children will be useful as you help kids develop their confidence and skills. You will serve as a strong role model for children who need a bit of extra support.
6. Create Teaching Tools
You know those textbooks, online resources, and games you like to use in the classroom? Someone made them!
Teaching resources are valuable, and there is an entire industry built around them. Companies that produce classroom tools love to hire former teachers.
7. Work in a Museum
Museum jobs are a great option for former classroom educators. There are endless opportunities to plan exhibitions and create informative displays. Many museums also need educators to design summer camps and public education programs.
8. Write or Edit
As a teacher, you have done plenty of writing. So write a book or become a journalist. Blogging can also be a rewarding career that gives you total control of your schedule.
Newspapers and publishers often have openings for editors as well. Maybe you would enjoy reading interesting content in a quiet space after so many years in a chaotic classroom.
9. Consider a Career in Human Resources
The job of a human resources professional is to support your company’s workforce. This role requires organization, planning, and great communication skills. As a teacher, you already have all three.
10. Test Your Sales Skills
Your communication skills can also be applied to a career in sales. The ability to listen to your customers and understand their needs is essential. You will also have to explain why your product is a good fit for them.
Your time in the classroom has prepared you well for these tasks.
11. Work for an Insurance Company
Insurance agents sell insurance to meet their clients’ specific needs. This is a job that requires you to be comfortable with public speaking, just like teaching. You must also be organized, confident, and able to provide five-star customer service.
12. Enter the Wellness Industry
Jobs in the wellness industry can be rewarding because it’s all about helping people feel good. Consider becoming certified as a nutritionist or a fitness instructor.
Nail technicians, hairstylists, acupuncturists, and massage therapists also earn substantial salaries with minimal training requirements.
Which Jobsites Are Best?
When you’re ready to start the job application process, search online for opportunities. These are the best jobsites to find good jobs for former teachers in each sector.
Jobs in the Education Sector
- Education-jobs.co.uk
- Tes.com
- Reed.co.uk
- Teachaway.com
- Tutorful.co.uk
Jobs in the Cultural Sector
- Nationalmuseums.org.uk
- Artsjobs.org.uk
- Museumjobs.com
Jobs Outside the Comfort Zone
- Jobs.theguardian.com
- Indeed.co.uk
- Welltodocareers.com
Jobs for a Side Income
- Flexjobs.com
- Remote-jobs.com
- Simplyhired.co.uk
- itsherhub.com
Prepare Your Resume for Success
When you apply for a new career, you will have to compete with others who have industry experience. Don’t let that fact intimidate you.
There are strategies to craft a resume based on your individual work history that will impress any employer. The trick is to focus on your relevant knowledge and skills. It can also be helpful to express your enthusiasm for the new job you are pursuing.
If you are ready to learn more, check out our Career Roadmap that will guide you on how to land your dream job and then grow in it..
You Should Pursue a Career You Enjoy
Congratulations on your decision to make a positive change. It’s not easy, and you are brave to go after better opportunities. In the end, you will be happier and more financially secure.
Keep in mind that you are not limited to this list of jobs for former teachers. Think creatively and apply for any position that interests you. Adjust your resume to fit the job description and highlight your most applicable talents.
Visit our shop to purchase resume templates that are designed to impress potential employers.
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