Find a teaching role at the right school
When searching for your perfect teaching role you’ll need to think about the location, size and setting of the school you’d like to work in. You can find out more about schools you’re interested in on the Get Information about Schools service.
The time you spend teaching is only one aspect of life in a school. The wider school culture and community will have a big impact on your experience.
All schools have a different approach to culture, curriculum, values, and wellbeing. The school’s approach to these will help you enjoy your working life.
Feel free to ask hiring staff any questions before applying for a job.
You can also organise a school visit to get a feel for what the school is like.
If you need support returning to teaching after a break, you could be eligible for a return to teaching adviser.
School culture
The best way to get a sense of what a school is like is to experience it in person, and you should feel comfortable to make an appointment for a school visit.
Most schools welcome visits, particularly to the department you’re interested in applying to.
You could also have a look at the school’s website or newsletter. Some schools might share their news and successes on social media too.
You can find an email address or phone number for the school’s hiring team on their job advert so you can get in touch with any questions about the role.
Curriculum
You should be able to find the school’s curriculum on their website. Specifically for secondary roles, think about how you could demonstrate your subject knowledge in your application.
School vision and mission statement
Checking the school’s vision, values and mission statement is a great way to find out what the school is like.
Review the school’s latest Ofsted report or School Improvement Plan
You can find a school’s Ofsted report:
- on the Ofsted website
- on the school’s job advert on Teaching Vacancies
Although the information may not be current, Ofsted reports can give you an idea of information such as the:
- number of pupils in the school
- percentage of pupils on free school meals
Staff wellbeing
Have a look at the job description or school website to see how the school supports its staff.
Pastoral support is key for happiness in the workplace. Have a look at the Education staff wellbeing charter and find out if the school you are interested in has signed up. The charter is a shared commitment to protect, promote and enhance the wellbeing of school staff. Schools will approach wellbeing differently, so even if they aren’t signed up to the charter, it’s a good idea to ask how staff are supported.
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