We're currently recruiting for overseas trained teachers looking for a teaching job in London, UK. View our jobs board page here for more information. We have answered a number of frequently asked questions below, but if you have any further questions, please feel free to contact our team here.
How do the pay scales work in London?
Teachers in London earn competitive salaries, with pay scales dependent on experience and location. There are different pay brackets, with inner London offering higher pay.
Will I need a visa to teach in London?
Yes, you will need a visa to work in the UK. Overseas citizens typically apply for the Skilled Worker or Youth Mobility Scheme visa (if you are aged 18-35). We can help guide you through the visa application process.
What is the work culture like in London Schools?
London schools are known for their diversity and commitment to inclusive education. The work culture can be fast-paced and challenging, but incredibly rewarding. You will work alongside a talented team of educators (including teachers and support staff) with plenty of opportunities for professional development and collaboration.
How do the school holidays work in the UK?
School holidays in the UK are generous, with around 13 weeks of holiday each year. This includes a long summer break, Christmas, Easter and half-term holidays every 6 to 8 weeks.
What is the classroom environment like in London?
Classrooms in London are often diverse. You will be working alongside staff and students from various cultures. Schools tend to have strong support systems in place with teaching assistants, pastoral care and SENCo’s to help manage diverse classroom needs (SEND).
How does the UK education system differ from overseas?
The UK education system is slightly different. There is a focus on the National Curriculum and testing like SATS, GCSE and A Levels. Schools are categorised into the following: State schools, academies and independent schools. The education system is divided into several levels. Here is an overview.
- Early Years Education (Ages 0-5 years including nursery and reception year).
- Primary Education (Ages 5-11 years divided into two key stages. Key Stage 1 which is Y1 and Y2 and Key Stage 2 which is Y3, Y4, Y5 and Y6).
- Secondary Education (Ages 11-16 years divided into two key stages. Key Stage 3 which is Y7, Y8 and Y9. Key Stage 4 which is Y10 and Y11).
What age groups will I be teaching in secondary schools?
Secondary education covers ages 11 to 16 years for Key Stages 3 and 4. If you are teaching in a Sixth Form or College, this is Key Stage 5 for ages 16 to 18 years old.
What age groups will I be teaching in primary schools?
Primary Education covers ages 4 to 11 years (Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2), Early Years Education covers Nursery, Pre-school and Reception (otherwise known as EYFS).
If your qualification is specific to Early Years Education, you will only be able to teach up to Reception.
How is student behaviour managed in London secondary schools?
Behaviour management strategies in London secondary schools vary. Generally, clear behaviour policies will be in place as well as support systems. Schools often have designated pastoral and behaviour management teams.
What are typical working hours for secondary school teachers?
The typical school day in London is from around 8.15/8.30am to 3.30/3.45pm. The exact hours can vary depending on the school’s schedule including any extracurricular activities or responsibilities you might have.
How do schools support students with Special Educational Needs?
Schools are required to provide support for students with SEND. This support comes from SENCos, Teaching Assistants, and tailored EHCPs (Educational Health Care Plans). You will work closely with these professionals to ensure that all students have the support they need to succeed academically.
What does daily supply look like in London as a teacher?
Daily supply teaching in London offers a flexible and varied work experience. Here’s an overview of what you can expect. Working in multiple schools giving you variety and opportunity to experience a range of schools. Daily supply teaching involves covering for teachers who are absent/unavailable. Most supply teachers are booked through education recruitment agencies. You will need to be flexible and available. You will generally follow lesson plans left by the absent teacher, you will be expected to manage classroom behaviour and maintain a positive learning environment. It provides opportunities to network and potentially secure long-term roles.
What opportunities are there for career development in London?
There are numerous professional development opportunities for teachers, from in-school training sessions to external courses. Some schools have leading internal development programmes. Schools encourage continuous development, with access to programmes and specialised training to enhance your career.
What is public transport like in London?
London has an extensive public transport network. This includes buses, trains and the tube. You can easily get around without a car. Most people use public transport for their daily commute. Travel cards are available.
Do secondary school teachers have a subject specialism or are they expected to deliver a variety of subjects?
In secondary schools, teachers generally have subject specialisms and are typically expected to teach within their area of expertise. In addition to their subject teaching, teachers may take on pastoral roles such as a form tutor. While teachers generally stick to their specialism, there may be occasions where they are asked to cover lessons in other subjects due to staffing shortages.
How is the National Curriculum structured in Early Years and Primary schools?
Students follow a broad curriculum from Nursery up to Year 6. From 0-5, the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) Framework is followed. Year 1 and Year 2 follow the Key Stage 1 National Curriculum, and Year 3 to Year 6 follow the Key Stage 2 National Curriculum.
Do Primary school teachers have a subject specialism or are they expected to deliver a variety of subjects?
Primary teachers are expected to deliver a variety of subjects which are set out as ‘Core Subjects’ and ‘Foundation Subjects’ in the National Curriculum, which you can read here.
What is the typical class size in a London school?
Typical class sizes can vary depending on the type of school. For state schools, the average class size is generally around 30 pupils per class. In secondary schools, class sizes might be a bit smaller. SEND schools will be drastically smaller compared to mainstream schools. This is to provide more personalised support to students with a range of needs.
How is the National Curriculum structured in a secondary school?
In Secondary schools, students follow a broad curriculum in Key Stages 3 (Y7-Y9) and then choose their GCSE subjects in Key Stage 4 (Y10 and Y11). The core subjects are English, Maths and Science.
