Episode Overview

This episode explores how a classroom teacher built opportunities beyond school without leaving it. Simon shares how he moved from simply posting ideas online to working with global education brands, while staying grounded in teaching.

The conversation focuses on value, credibility, and the tension between education and business. It unpacks what companies actually need from teachers, why authenticity matters, and how educators can create opportunities without chasing them.

For education founders, it offers a clear perspective on working with teachers effectively. For teachers, it shows a realistic path into building influence and income without losing integrity.

00:00 – Introduction

02:00 – Why Simon Became a Teacher

04:30 – Starting to Share Online

06:30 – The Shift to Business Thinking

12:30 – Understanding Your Value

17:30 – Monetisation and Credibility

19:30 – The Role of Trust in Schools

23:00 – Getting Started in 30 Days

26:30 – What Brands Get Wrong

29:00 – Working with Small vs Big Companies

31:30 – What Education Businesses Need to Know

All About Simon:

Simon Hunt is a primary school teacher, education consultant, author, and content creator with 17 years of experience across a range of settings. He began his teaching career in Reception before teaching in Year 6 and now teaches a mixed Year 3/4 class at Tottington Primary School in Bury.
Alongside his classroom role, Simon is a Specialist Leader of Education (SLE) for Bury, supporting schools to develop creative, inclusive, and effective teaching practices. He works with schools across the UK to deliver CPD, share innovative approaches to learning, and help teachers feel confident and inspired in their practice.

Simon has worked as an education consultant with the BBC on the 500 Words writing competition for the past three years and has collaborated with organisations including Netflix on projects linked to the Blackfish documentary. He is also a published children’s author and has worked with a range of education and EdTech organisations across the UK and Europe to develop meaningful, classroom-focused resources. He was also named Inspirational Teacher of the Year by the Manchester Evening News.

Known online as Mr Hunt from the Front, Simon shares practical ideas, classroom strategies, and creative approaches to teaching with a wide audience of educators. His work is driven by a passion for making learning engaging, inclusive, and memorable for all children.

Website: https://www.mrhuntfromthefront.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mrhuntfromthefront
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mrhuntfromthefront/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/simon-hunt-b0a442161/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mrhuntfromthefront