Nadiya Hussain Finds New Purpose in Teaching After BBC Departure
Former Great British Bake Off champion Nadiya Hussain has made a significant career shift, stepping away from the television spotlight to work as a teaching assistant in a primary school. This move comes after the BBC decided not to renew her cookery show, a decision that left her without clear answers. The 41-year-old chef, who rose to fame by winning the sixth series of Bake Off in 2015, had been a prominent figure on the broadcaster, hosting acclaimed programs like Nadiya Chronicles, Nadiya Bakes, and Nadiya’s Fast Flavours.
Navigating Judgment and Embracing a New Path
Despite receiving offers from other networks such as ITV and Channel 4, Hussain chose to pursue a career in education. In an interview with Woman & Home magazine, she revealed that she is currently working at a primary school, with aspirations to train and potentially become a full-time teacher in the future. She described the application process, which included filling out forms, interviews, and observing classroom interactions, noting that some were surprised to receive calls from her seeking employment.
Hussain admitted to facing judgment from friends and family, who questioned why she would move from a high-profile television career to what they perceived as a step backward. However, she emphasized that she does not view it that way, stating, "Just because I’m famous doesn’t mean I’m at the top. I have been at my lowest at the top." With the support of her husband Abdal, she brainstormed this career change, acknowledging the emotional challenges involved, including tears and sadness.
Finding Fulfillment Beyond Television
Since starting her role at the school, Hussain has found immense satisfaction, calling it some of her highest moments. She expressed that nothing compares to helping children feel safe and achieve their goals. Reflecting on the BBC's decision to cancel her show, she shared that she had a gut feeling something was amiss after a decade of consistent work in TV and cookbooks. Her agent informed her that the BBC would not commission another series, but she has yet to receive an explanation from her former employers, leaving her without closure.
In a statement, a BBC spokesman said that while they are not commissioning another cookery show with Hussain at this time, she remains a valued part of the BBC family, with hopes for future collaborations. Currently uninterested in television work, Hussain indicated that she might return if offered more creative input in cookery shows or opportunities to create travelogues and documentaries on meaningful issues, similar to her 2019 BBC One documentary Nadiya: Anxiety and Me.
This career transition highlights Hussain's resilience and commitment to personal growth, as she embraces a new chapter focused on education and community impact.
