Getting a teaching job : Where to start

In order to get a teaching job you must have first completed a teacher training course. Once you have done that you can start thinking about what sort of teaching job you would like and how you might be able to get it.

The information provided here relates primarily to teaching in England and Wales. Specific information is also available on teaching in Scotland, teaching in Wales and teaching in Northern Ireland. For information on working as a teacher, see types of jobs.

Identify the job you want

You should consider the following points:

• location (be realistic about how far you can commute on top of a working day); 
• size and types of schools;
• year group and key stages;
• teaching methods and styles;
• school performance/reputation.

Remember, greater flexibility can make securing a job easier. Numbers of job vacancies vary considerably across the country according to birth rates, budgets and your key stage/subject. There are generally fewer vacancies and more competition than in recent years.

Consider taking a temporary position, as it may become permanent or may increase your employability. Posts well outside your age range or subject area should be avoided.

Induction

All new teachers in England and Wales are required to complete an induction programme lasting one academic year (pro-rata for part time). During the induction you are assessed against Core Standards in England and End of Induction Standards in Wales.

Think about the type of institution you would like to be in when completing your induction year and look at the sort of support you will get there during your induction.

You are able to complete your induction in maintained schools and in non-maintained special schools. If certain criteria are met you can also complete your induction in further education institutions and sixth form colleges, independent schools (including academies and city technology colleges) and early years settings. You cannot complete your induction in a school that is in ‘special measures.’

If you wish to go straight into short-term supply work before completing your induction year, you are able to do so but this can only be done for a maximum period of 16 months. One full term of supply work can count towards your induction year.

You should not teach more than 90% of a normal timetable during induction. In addition you will receive a minimum of 10% PPA time (planning, preparation and assessment time). You are entitled to a planned induction programme that has been tailored to your needs. You should also be appointed an induction tutor who provides day-to-day monitoring and support.

Job advertisements

Key information can be picked out of job advertisements, such as the essential and desirable skills and experience required for the post. Use this information to see how well-matched you are to the job and ensure your application is tailored to the requirements in the advertisement.  

Application packs

When you reply to a job advertisement, you should receive an application pack containing some or all of the following:

• an application form;
• a job description/person specification;
• information about the school or local authority.

Read through everything, highlighting key words and phrases.

The person specification outlines the qualifications, experience, knowledge and skills required. Your application will need to address how you meet each of these requirements. Ensure your application is targeted directly at the specific school and job; do not use a generic teaching job application.

Do your research

Knowledge of the school’s outlook, policies and mission, as well as the role advertised, will enable you to target your application and show you have a genuine interest. It is therefore important that you carry out sufficient research before applying for a job or attending an interview. See the list below for ideas on how you may carry out this research. 

• Read The Office for Standards in Education, Children's Services and Skills (Ofsted)  inspection reports for schools.
• Look at the School and College Achievement and Attainment Tables .
• Read the school website.
• Search for local news stories about the school.
• Talk to people who know the school.
• Visit the school(s) you are interested in, especially where they indicate visits are welcome. This will help you to make a better application and to be sure that you want to apply. Remember they also get a chance to view you on this occasion.
• If it is not possible to visit, try to arrange a telephone discussion instead.
• Investigate current hot topics and educational issues.