Addressing the Elephant in the Room: Tuition Pays—And That’s Okay

Over the past few years, there has been a growing trend of teachers leaving the classroom to pursue careers in private tuition—and it's not hard to see why. There are a host of reasons why teachers are making this shift, but let’s address the elephant in the room: finances. The article highlights the financial rewards that come with pursuing private tuition, sparking debate on whether it’s right to acknowledge financial motivation as part of the decision.

My opinion on this is clear: there is nothing wrong with saying that financial reasons played a role in the decision. For me, and for many others, the transition wasn’t solely about money—but I won’t deny that it was a factor. However, money for the sake of money has never been my driving force. Instead, I see financial security as the medium that allows me to buy the most valuable commodity of all: time.

Time to meet a friend for a coffee in the middle of the day. Time to attend every school play, sports day, and major event in my daughter’s life. Time to take a real summer holiday, free from emails and deadlines, where I can truly be present with my family. For me, private tuition isn’t just a career that aligns with my passion for education; it’s also one that grants me the flexibility to live life on my own terms.

I studied at LSE, where there was a somewhat unspoken expectation that graduates would pursue careers in investment banking or consultancy. And while these are undoubtedly lucrative and valid career paths, I found that corporate life often comes with a significant trade-off: you gain financial security, but you sacrifice a far more valuable commodity: time. For me, that trade-off wasn’t worth it.

But let’s return to teaching. It’s no secret that teachers are overworked and underpaid. The allure of teaching—the idea of having long holidays—is often little more than a half-truth. Many teachers spend their so-called “breaks” catching up on marking, planning lessons, and tackling administrative tasks. It’s no wonder so many are now turning to private tuition as a viable alternative. Tuition offers not only financial rewards but also a chance to focus on what many teachers love most: the actual teaching. It strips away much of the bureaucracy and allows educators to see the direct impact they’re having on their students.

For me, private tuition and running a tuition business are about much more than the financial aspect. There is an unparalleled joy in transforming a student’s academic trajectory, acting as a source of comfort for parents, and equipping young people with skills that will last a lifetime. That’s why I’ve dedicated over a decade to this field, not just as a tutor but as someone committed to making high-quality education accessible and impactful.

I firmly believe that financial stability and a rewarding career don’t have to be mutually exclusive. In fact, they can—and should—go hand in hand. To the teachers considering a move into private tuition: know that it’s possible to find fulfillment, flexibility, and financial security all in one path. And to parents and students, rest assured that many of us in this field bring not just expertise but a deep passion for education and a commitment to excellence.

I’m curious to hear your thoughts. If you’re an educator who’s made the leap, or if you’re a parent who’s seen the impact of private tuition, what has your experience been? Let me know in the comments.