I left just over four years ago. Felt a little lost after leaving as it is a profession that just consumes you, and I saw myself as a teacher, that was my identity. It hasn’t been easy since then in terms of finding a new career etc. However, I am happier, healthier albeit poorer. As said above, teachers are paid very well compared to many other roles and professions.
I luckily found a great job with a local heritage charity, leading on their learning programme at the museum and castle. Take a look at charity job, and searching learning roles. There will be wildlife charities etc. all who do outreach programmes and visits.
If she wants to move completely out of teaching, then it may be a bit more difficult. I’d start by going through the roles and responsibilities that she performed, but then think about the key skills used to perform those jobs and reword them without using ‘teacher’ speak. I found it tough to reword my letters trying not to sound too ‘teachery’, and ensuring those who were reading it, could understand what I actually did.
I have done a little retraining, not massively successful though. I completed my Prince2, but hated it (totally put me off project management). However, it helped me get my current role. Perhaps a job to get some money, but use it to take some time to carefully think about where to go and do some retraining?
Hope she is all OK OP. It can be daunting leaving, but once you leave you’ll be surprised how many other ex teachers you meet who have not regretted leaving one bit.
Feel free to PM if you want :)
