Find a teaching role at the right school or college
When searching for your perfect teaching role you’ll need to think about the location, size and setting of the school or college 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 or college. The wider culture and community will have a big impact on your experience.
Schools and colleges all have a different approach to culture, curriculum, values, and wellbeing. The school or college’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 or college visit to get a feel for what the school or college is like.
If you need support returning to teaching after a break, you could be eligible for a return to teaching adviser.
School or college culture
The best way to get a sense of what a school or college is like is to experience it in person, and you should feel comfortable to make an appointment for a school or college visit.
Most schools and colleges welcome visits, particularly to the department you’re interested in applying to.
You could also have a look at the school or college’s website or newsletter. Some schools and colleges might share their news and successes on social media too.
You can find an email address or phone number for the school or college’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 or college’s curriculum on their website. Specifically for secondary school and college roles, think about how you could demonstrate your subject knowledge in your application.
School or college vision and mission statement
Checking the school or college’s vision, values and mission statement is a great way to find out what the school or college is like.
Review the school or college’s latest Ofsted report or School Improvement Plan
You can find a school or college’s Ofsted report:
- on the Ofsted website
- on the school or college’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 or college
- percentage of pupils on free school or college meals
Staff wellbeing
Have a look at the job description, or school or college website, to see how the school or college 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 or college you are interested in has signed up. The charter is a shared commitment to protect, promote and enhance the wellbeing of school and college staff. Schools and colleges 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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