Best Remote Jobs for Former Teachers

Being an ex-teacher who worked on-site for the entirety of my career, the thought of having a remote job was definitely an exciting prospect. Working from home, at my local coffee shop or the gym cafe has always been my dream. Being in charge of my own work schedule and being able to get housework done is definitely a massive benefit of having a remote job. Whilst being on maternity leave, I always wondered what the lucky people out for a stroll on a random Tuesday at 10am were doing for work. I'd always wanted to be one of those people!

Luckily, teachers have a treasure trove of transferable skills which make them perfect for remote roles. Here are some of the best remote jobs for former teachers.

Prefer something more hybrid, or not too fussed about being on-site? I've also written a post about The Top 5 Jobs Teachers Can Transfer Into.

1. Instructional Designer / eLearning Developer

I have an entire post dedicated to Teachers Becoming Instructional Designers which goes into detail about what being an Instructional Designer entails, and a post where I interview a former teacher who has now moved into Instructional Design, but essentially, as an Instructional Designer, you'll create online courses, training modules, and learning content for schools or businesses.

Why it works:

• Uses your curriculum design expertise

• Focuses on adult learning and educational strategies

• Flexible, project-based remote work

  
  

Pro tip: Learn tools like Articulate 360 or Adobe Captivate to boost your skills. Still unsure how your skills can transfer to Instructional Design. I've got you covered:

• How to Transfer from Teaching Into Instructional Design

• Success Stories: Interview with an Ex-teacher, come Instructional Designer

2. Online Tutor or Academic Coach

Online tutoring lets you teach students anywhere in the world—or coach them on study skills and exam prep.

Why it works:

• Directly uses teaching experience

• Flexible schedule and location

• Potential to specialise in subjects you love

• Less burn-out

• Teaching students who actually want to learn/teaching students who's parents are paying (so likely to pay more attention!)

  
  

3. Curriculum Writer / Educational Content Creator

Love creating lessons and teaching materials? Turn that into a remote curriculum design role - creating worksheets, guides, or online courses.

Why it works:

• Leverages lesson planning skills

• Creative and flexible work

• Many opportunities with publishers, online platforms, and Edtech companies

Pro Tip: Become familiar with Canva so you can practice designing professional and eye-catching curriculum content. Start creating a folder of the content you design for portfolio purposes, which can make you stand out on your resume.

4. Corporate Trainer

Businesses need trainers to teach employees new skills. If you’ve got classroom experience, you can thrive as a remote corporate trainer running webinars or virtual workshops.

Why it works:

• Teaching adults instead of kids

• Uses communication and organisational skills

• Often fully remote

• Potential for travel- possibility of travelling to new locations for workshops or seminars

  
  

5. EdTech Specialist

Combine your teaching know-how with tech skills to help schools or companies implement learning software and train staff.

Why it works:

• High-demand, growing field

• Fully remote roles available

• Opportunities for career growth

  
  

6. Freelance Writer or Blogger

Explain, inspire, and teach—all from your laptop. Writing about education, parenting, career advice, or other niches can be a full-time income stream.

Why it works:

• Flexible schedule and location

• Monetise through freelance clients, affiliate marketing, or self-publishing

• Perfect for creative teachers

  
  

Quick Tips to Land a Remote Job

1. Highlight transferable skills: Communication, organisation, and problem-solving are gold.

2. Learn digital tools: Online courses can teach you what you need for your new role.

3. Network online: LinkedIn groups and webinars help you find remote opportunities.

4. Start part-time: Test the waters with freelance or part-time roles.

Leaving teaching doesn’t mean losing your impact. With these remote jobs, you can leverage your experience, work from anywhere, and enjoy a flexible career that fits your lifestyle.