Inspirational Teacher Interviews – At Those Who Can, we love hearing about teachers’ lived experiences, from the classroom to their new ventures.

We are always learning and adapting and these new blogs aim to inspire and give direction.

We caught up with former Headteacher Sarah Hutt read about her journey here:

What’s Your Background In Teaching?

I worked in education for 28 years 20 of these years were in senior management, I have had many rewarding years in education and some tough years, and I have enjoyed every student’s success and felt great pride in my work.

Why Did You Decide To Embark On A New Career?

It was a long slow process when deciding to change careers. I felt I was giving a lot of myself to others and losing the balance between home life and work life.

I started as a print designer before teaching and I missed the creative me. I wanted to reconnect with my artistic self and explore what I could achieve before time ran out.

Where Did The Idea Of Your Business Come From?

I knew that I would need to have some income to follow my dream so I did a lot of research into possible job roles which aligned with my teaching experience.

I eventually found two jobs that suited my skills and now work as a freelance trainer for drink driving courses and in initial teacher training as a visiting assessor. These roles earn my bread and butter and allow great flexibility as I work when I want to.

I then booked a week’s art school to see if I could still hold a paintbrush. The early days were scary and I questioned my choices a lot. Two years ago I Secured an art council studio and have several exhibitions to look forward to in local museums and art galleries, Windsor racecourse, and a stately home.

My paintings sell and although I have a lot to learn about becoming a professional artist I feel pleased as punch with my journey so far. I’m surrounded by fellow creatives and found a brand new community.

What Barriers Did You Face?

My biggest barrier was me at the start. I had to believe I could and lose the guilt I had from leaving the profession.

After nearly 30 years I would say I was fairly institutionalised and believed it was the only thing I could do and no one would be interested in employing me. It seems to have been the opposite. I applied for several jobs and received several offers.

Another barrier was giving up a career that was financially secure and with a good pension. The thought of being financially vulnerable scared me. I spent a lot of time reviewing my finances and understanding my priorities. I had to make sacrifices to reach my goal. 

How Have Your Teaching Skills Helped You?

My teaching skills have been invaluable as a trainer. As teachers, we are naturally empathetic and have strong communication skills. This meant transferring to a training role was very organic and I was highly sought after.

This helped boost my confidence and I recognised the things we take as a given in the teaching profession.

We tend to undersell ourselves but these skills are highly sought after. Add to that the ability to be highly organised and meet deadlines I found myself fast-tracked to higher-paying roles in less than six months.

Being able to take on new knowledge quickly and be politely persistent has helped open doors to grow my art career.

What New Skills Have You Developed?

I have learned a lot about working in commerce and business. I’ve completed a level 3 qualification in drink and drug abuse to support my training role. Most importantly I have understood how to complete my tax return and keep my accounts in good order.

What Do You Relish About Your New Role?

I have total flexibility. I fix my working diary. I tend to work 3 days a week and earn a similar amount as I did when I worked in education.

I can choose when to take holidays or time out. I have appreciated working in a business framework where expectations are clear and not driven by my political agendas

I know what is and what isn’t expected of me with no hidden messages. It’s been a breath of fresh air. When my work is done, it’s done, no late evenings or worrying about all the things I didn’t achieve or still need to do.

Who Has Inspired You On Your Career Journey?

My family’s support has been my biggest inspiration. Their belief in me helped me believe in myself. 

I am also part of the local artist community and their words of encouragement have been invaluable. 

Most of them work in some capacity to fund their art. Understanding their mindsets that the job isn’t the be-all and end-all has helped me prioritise what truly matters to me.

What Are Your Three Top Pieces Of Advice For Someone Wanting To Do Something Similar?

Priority one: Do your homework.

Research what is out there, set time aside each week to explore your pathway from education to a new you. 

As teachers, we are used to setting short and long-term targets in a development plan and breaking down what has to be done. I used this approach in my journey. I set milestones, e.g. find 5 jobs that would interest you. Complete a skills and attribute list to identify the qualities that match the jobs you have seen.

Priority two: Seek financial advice.

If you are worried financially, don’t be afraid to get help. It will give you clarity about your financial situation. Speak to teacher pensions to find out what will happen to your pension. Answering all these concerning questions will give you a solid foundation and a better understanding of your situation. You can then set a budget and keep to it.

Priority three: Don’t think ‘I can’t’, ‘they won’t’, or ‘it will never happen’.

Use the same language you would use to encourage the reluctant student on yourself. ‘You can’, they might’, or ‘What if’. You need a positive mindset, this is your dream and yours for the making.

Two years in I couldn’t be happier. I wrote a blog a year ago and it focused more on the fact I had managed to survive. I might not be as financially rich but my life is much richer. I have time for family and friends, I’m not tired from overwork and I don’t beat myself up over the things that are out of my control. I’ve accepted and like myself and that is priceless!

Sarah Hutt

Former Headteacher now Trainer and Artist

You can follow Sarah on Instagram and view more of her wonderful artwork: Sarah Hutt

Thank you, Sarah, for contributing to our Teacher Interviews, if you would like to write for us, we are always looking for stories to inspire teachers: Write for Those Who Can