South London’s Ella Weston swapped 70-hour weeks for her own business – now earning twice as much while reclaiming her health and freedom.
A “burnt out” primary school teacher has revealed how she doubled her income by quitting the classroom to start her own tutoring business – working just two hours a day.
Ella Weston, 26, began teaching in 2021 on a £34,000 salary but soon found herself exhausted by the “unrelenting” hours and mounting pressures of the profession.
READ MORE: Fashion Fan Turns Vintage Reselling Into Profitable Side Hustle
“I wasn’t sleeping well, my anxiety was worsening, and eventually, my doctor signed me off due to high blood pressure,” she told Hype Daily.
In March 2024, she made the decision to step away from her role and, two months later, launched her tutoring business, Ella’s Study Spot, from her conservatory in South London.
Within weeks, demand had outstripped supply. By summer, her sessions were almost full, and she now even runs a waiting list.
Ella supports home-educated students during the day and runs small group classes in the evenings, teaching more than 40 pupils each week.
“I love creating personalised lessons that connect to the children’s interests and make learning fun,” she said.
“I’m not governed by strict, rigid schemes that strip all the creativity from teaching anymore.”
She now estimates her annual earnings to be more than double her teaching salary, despite working a fraction of the hours.
“The financial gain is great, but honestly, the freedom and flexibility I have now are even more valuable,” she explained.
Ella admits the leap from a stable income was daunting but believes her success highlights deeper issues in the education system.
“So many children are struggling to keep up with the pace of the curriculum. Parents are looking for additional support, and I’m grateful to be in a position to provide that.”
Alongside tutoring, she has created a guide to help other teachers transition from the classroom to private tuition.
“There are so many incredible professionals on the brink of burnout. It’s amazing to help them reclaim their lives,” she said.
Less than a year after leaving her old career behind, Ella says her life now feels sustainable and fulfilling:
“These days, my life bandwidth feels so much bigger, and my job doesn’t consume me the way it once did. Tutoring has given me freedom, joy, and a career I wouldn’t trade for anything.”
READ MORE: Telegram Billionaire Pavel Durov Still Uses £142 Samsung Phone
