Independent consultant for schools and colleges

Head teachers, academy trusts, colleges, private schools and training providers, usually from their training or improvement budgets.

Day rates, half-day rates or fixed project fees for audits, training sessions, reviews and ongoing support.

• Senior teaching, leadership or curriculum experience
• Presenting and training adults
• Writing clear reports and proposals

• Schools will expect an enhanced DBS check, so check how to get one as a self-employed person
• Professional indemnity and public liability insurance are commonly requested by schools
• Some schools and trusts use approved supplier lists or procurement rules, so check their requirements early
• Income can be uneven as school budgets and terms affect when work comes in
• If you work through an agency or one client, check whether HMRC rules on off-payroll working (IR35) could apply

Estimates suggest startup costs typically around £300 to £2,500, depending on insurance, DBS checks, a website and any materials you need. Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around £800 to £4,000, depending on contracts and when school budgets allow work.

Estimates suggest at least around 8 hours a week. Useful skills include senior teaching, leadership or curriculum experience, presenting and training adults, and writing clear reports and proposals. Income can be uneven because school budgets and terms affect when work comes in.

Check how to get an enhanced DBS check as a self-employed person, and professional indemnity and public liability insurance, which schools commonly request. Also check approved supplier lists or procurement rules, and whether HMRC off-payroll working rules (IR35) could apply.