In this episode, we’re joined by the unstoppable Ilana King - educational consultant, entrance exam specialist, home educator, and all-round powerhouse.

Ilana’s journey is far from typical. After just two years in the classroom, she knew it wasn’t the right fit - and rather than settle, she built something new. Literally. She created her own nursery from the ground up (on land she negotiated with a secondary school), ran it successfully, then sold it and pivoted again. She home educated her three children for 20 years and now sits at the heart of the tuition community, supporting families through 7+, 8+, and 11+ entrance exams and training other tutors to do the same.

This episode is a masterclass in self-belief, values-led decisions, and building a career on your own terms. Whether you’re still in the classroom or already planning your escape, Ilana’s story will show you what’s possible when you refuse to be boxed in.

Highlights include:

• Why she walked away from teaching after just two years
• The toxic school culture that helped her make up her mind
• Building and running two nurseries before age 30
• Why she home educated her children — and how
• The secrets of the selective school entrance exam world
• Creating a sustainable, empowering tutoring business

Ilana didn’t just leave teaching - she rewrote the script.

You can find Ilana here:

Website: Become An Entrance Exam Tutor

Linkeding: https://linkedin.com/in/educationpathfinder

Instagram @ilana_trainsentranceexamtutors

Send us a message.

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If you've been affected by any of the issues raised in our podcast there are organisations who can help:

• Education Support
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Edited with finesse by our Podcast Super Producer, Mike Roberts of Making Digital Real

This week, we’re joined by the brilliant and unassuming Peter Scholes – a man who gave 21 years to the classroom before stepping away when shifting leadership turned a once-thriving school culture into something unrecognisable.

In this heartfelt episode, Pete shares how the sudden departure of a beloved headteacher triggered a school-wide unraveling, leading to mass staff turnover, a loss of trust, and ultimately, his own departure. Now a successful driving instructor and published author, Pete talks openly about depression, rediscovering confidence, and the transferable skills that still shape his life today.

✨ It’s a powerful reminder that when one door closes, others truly do open – sometimes with a pen in one hand and car keys in the other.

📚 Links to Pete’s books can be found here

Don’t miss this one.

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If you've been affected by any of the issues raised in our podcast there are organisations who can help:

• Education Support
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Edited with finesse by our Podcast Super Producer, Mike Roberts of Making Digital Real

In Part 2 of this powerful conversation, Rob Newlands takes us through the devastating fallout of his time in headship - and the turning point that changed everything.

After months of isolation, impossible expectations, and systemic failure, Rob faced a brutal mocksted that delivered the final blow. What followed was a silent breakdown behind closed doors, a desperate call to his GP, and the realisation that he had to leave the profession to survive.

Rob shares the raw truth about what it feels like to hit rock bottom - the shame, the self-doubt, and the guilt so many teachers carry when they can no longer keep going. But this is also a story of recovery, purpose, and the surprising path he found on the other side of education.

This episode is a lifeline for anyone who’s been made to feel they’re “not enough,” despite giving everything they had. If you've ever questioned your worth, your resilience, or your ability to start again - Rob’s story is for you.

Useful links :

Facebook: Rob Newlands- Financial Planner | Falmouth

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/robnewlands.dswm/

Dean Stevens Wealth Management: https://www.deanstevenswm.co.uk/

Send us a message.

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Interested in coming to our conference? https://www.tutorsconference.co.uk

If you've been affected by any of the issues raised in our podcast there are organisations who can help:

• Education Support
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Edited with finesse by our Podcast Super Producer, Mike Roberts of Making Digital Real

In the first of this two-part special, we meet Rob Newlands, a former headteacher who climbed the leadership ladder quickly - only to face a stark and painful reality at the top.

At just 30 years old, Rob stepped into a headship in Cornwall, full of energy, purpose, and a belief that he could make a difference. But what awaited him was far from the job he signed up for. From day one, Rob was met with missing policies, no induction, and the expectation to lead full-time while also teaching full-time… and that was just the start.

In Part 1, Rob walks us through the impossible conditions he faced - covering everything from safeguarding and site maintenance to the challenges of running a school with rising SEND needs and no structural support. His story is a raw and powerful account of what happens when passionate leaders are left to sink or swim with no safety net.

This episode shines a light on systemic failings, the mental toll of unsupported leadership, and the unravelling that can occur when cries for help go unanswered.

Rob’s honesty and humility make this an unforgettable listen.

Rob's links :

Facebook: Rob Newlands- Financial Planner | Falmouth

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/robnewlands.dswm/

Dean Stevens Wealth Management: https://www.deanstevenswm.co.uk/

Send us a message.

Buy Us a Coffee ☕️

Loving the Pit Pony Podcast?

We’d be so grateful for your support! We’ve set up a Buy Me a Coffee page where you can make a small donation to help keep the podcast running.

https://buymeacoffee.com/thepitponyclub

Voice Message Us: https://www.speakpipe.com/pitponypodcast

Interested in coming to our conference? https://www.tutorsconference.co.uk

If you've been affected by any of the issues raised in our podcast there are organisations who can help:

• Education Support
• The Samaritans
• Mind
• Andy's Man Club

Join Us:

• Subscribe to the Pit Pony Podcast
• Sign up to our mailing list here: http://eepurl.com/i1L5ck

Thanks for listening 🙏

Edited with finesse by our Podcast Super Producer, Mike Roberts of Making Digital Real

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Kitty White never imagined she’d leave teaching - she was in it for life.

But after years of battling anxiety, disillusionment, and a crushing sense of being lost, she made a brave leap out of the classroom and into something completely different.

In this powerful episode, Kitty reflects on the emotional toll teaching took on her, how she slowly rebuilt herself, and how she found new purpose (and peace) as the Business Development Manager of Cozy Holiday Cottages in the Yorkshire Dales.

Her story is full of raw honesty, gentle humour, and hope - and reminds us that it’s never too late to choose yourself.

Useful links :

Website - https://cozyholidaycottages.co.uk/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/cozyholidaycottages/

- - - - - -

💚 This episode is proudly sponsored by the National Teaching and Advisory Service (NTAS) a brilliant organisation supporting children and young people not in mainstream education through one-to-one teaching. If you’re a teacher looking for a more flexible, meaningful way to use your skills outside the classroom, NTAS are always looking for passionate professionals to join them.

Send us a message.

Buy Us a Coffee ☕️

Loving the Pit Pony Podcast?

We’d be so grateful for your support! We’ve set up a Buy Me a Coffee page where you can make a small donation to help keep the podcast running.

https://buymeacoffee.com/thepitponyclub

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Interested in coming to our conference? https://www.tutorsconference.co.uk

If you've been affected by any of the issues raised in our podcast there are organisations who can help:

• Education Support
• The Samaritans
• Mind
• Andy's Man Club

Join Us:

• Subscribe to the Pit Pony Podcast
• Sign up to our mailing list here: http://eepurl.com/i1L5ck

Thanks for listening 🙏

Edited with finesse by our Podcast Super Producer, Mike Roberts of Making Digital Real

What happens when a dedicated teacher realises that the career she once loved is no longer the right fit? In this episode, we sit down with Rachael Daniel, who made the bold decision to step away from teaching and carve out a new path.

Rachael takes us through the highs and lows of her transition - from the moment she knew she had to leave, to the doubts that nearly held her back, and the surprising opportunities that opened up once she took the leap. She shares how she navigated financial fears, rediscovered her confidence, and built a career that aligns with her values and passions.

Expect raw honesty, practical advice, and plenty of inspiration for anyone considering a major career shift. If you’re feeling stuck in a job that no longer serves you, Rachael’s story might just be the nudge you need.

🎧 Listen now and get ready to rethink what’s possible.

A big shout-out to our sponsor, Full of Beans!

If you’re a teacher looking for a new direction but still want to make a difference in children's lives, Full of Beans could be the perfect opportunity. They offer sports and fitness coaching for kids, helping to build confidence, teamwork, and a love of movement. Whether you're looking for a full-time career shift or a flexible side hustle, Full of Beans is always on the lookout for passionate educators who want to inspire the next generation.

Check them out in the show notes or visit their website HERE to learn more!

Send us a message.

Buy Us a Coffee ☕️

Loving the Pit Pony Podcast?

We’d be so grateful for your support! We’ve set up a Buy Me a Coffee page where you can make a small donation to help keep the podcast running.

https://buymeacoffee.com/thepitponyclub

Voice Message Us: https://www.speakpipe.com/pitponypodcast

Interested in coming to our conference? https://www.tutorsconference.co.uk

If you've been affected by any of the issues raised in our podcast there are organisations who can help:

• Education Support
• The Samaritans
• Mind
• Andy's Man Club

Join Us:

• Subscribe to the Pit Pony Podcast
• Sign up to our mailing list here: http://eepurl.com/i1L5ck

Thanks for listening 🙏

Edited with finesse by our Podcast Super Producer, Mike Roberts of Making Digital Real

This week on The Pit Pony Podcast, we sit down with the incredible Grant Decker – a former teacher whose love for music led him to open his own record shop. After years in the classroom, supporting students with complex needs, Grant realised it was time for a change.

In this episode, he shares his inspiring journey from education to entrepreneurship, the challenges of balancing work and family, and how he built a thriving business from his passion for vinyl.

Thinking about your own exit strategy?

Grant’s story is proof that it can be done!

Useful links :

https://linktr.ee/vinylshakedownrecords

https://www.facebook.com/vinylshakedown

https://www.instagram.com/vinylshakedown

_ _ _ _ _ _ _

P.S. Big shoutout to our sponsors, the National Teaching & Advisory Service (NT&AS), who do incredible work supporting children who aren't in mainstream education. They provide one-to-one teaching, working with young people who need that extra bit of care, whether they're in foster care, have additional needs, or just need help getting back on track. If you're a teacher looking for a change but still want to make a difference, they are always on the lookout for passionate educators. Check out ntas.org.uk and see how you can get involved!

Send us a message.

Buy Us a Coffee ☕️

Loving the Pit Pony Podcast?

We’d be so grateful for your support! We’ve set up a Buy Me a Coffee page where you can make a small donation to help keep the podcast running.

https://buymeacoffee.com/thepitponyclub

Voice Message Us: https://www.speakpipe.com/pitponypodcast

Interested in coming to our conference? https://www.tutorsconference.co.uk

If you've been affected by any of the issues raised in our podcast there are organisations who can help:

• Education Support
• The Samaritans
• Mind
• Andy's Man Club

Join Us:

• Subscribe to the Pit Pony Podcast
• Sign up to our mailing list here: http://eepurl.com/i1L5ck

Thanks for listening 🙏

Edited with finesse by our Podcast Super Producer, Mike Roberts of Making Digital Real

In this episode of the Pit Pony Podcast, we sit down with Paul Lennon, a former teacher with 28 years of experience in secondary schools across the UK and around the world. Paul started his career as a PE teacher, eventually working his way up to head of department, assistant principal, and IB Diploma Coordinator.

But his journey took an unexpected and deeply challenging turn when he found himself in a toxic school environment that left him battling anxiety, self-doubt, and ultimately a panic attack that forced him to walk away.

Paul shares:

· His fascinating globetrotting teaching career, from Japan to Africa to Russia and beyond

· The power struggles and bullying culture that made his final school unbearable

· The moment he physically couldn’t enter the building—and the turning point that followed

· How leaving education led him to a new career in the NHS, where he’s found professional fulfilment and purpose

This is an eye-opening conversation about resilience, leadership, and what happens when great teachers are pushed out by toxic cultures. If you’ve ever felt trapped in a job that no longer aligns with your values, Paul’s story will resonate deeply.

🎧 Listen now and discover how he rebuilt his life after teaching.

Send us a message.

Buy Us a Coffee ☕️

Loving the Pit Pony Podcast?

We’d be so grateful for your support! We’ve set up a Buy Me a Coffee page where you can make a small donation to help keep the podcast running.

https://buymeacoffee.com/thepitponyclub

Voice Message Us: https://www.speakpipe.com/pitponypodcast

Interested in coming to our conference? https://www.tutorsconference.co.uk

If you've been affected by any of the issues raised in our podcast there are organisations who can help:

• Education Support
• The Samaritans
• Mind
• Andy's Man Club

Join Us:

• Subscribe to the Pit Pony Podcast
• Sign up to our mailing list here: http://eepurl.com/i1L5ck

Thanks for listening 🙏

Edited with finesse by our Podcast Super Producer, Mike Roberts of Making Digital Real