Return to teaching: step by step

A teacher talking in front of a classroom full of students.

Check what you need to do to return to teach in a state-funded school in England. If you need support returning to teaching after a break, you could be eligible for a return to teaching adviser. You can find additional support on Get support returning to teaching.

Prepare to return to teaching

Find out what has changed since you last taught in a classroom. You can also start to explore potential roles by setting up a job alert and get teaching jobs sent to you.

Update your subject and teaching knowledge

Get classroom experience

You should spend time in a classroom to see if you're ready to return to teaching. Classroom experience can also help you secure a strong teaching reference for your applications.

Find classroom experience

How to apply for classroom experience

Prepare your application

As part of your application, you'll need to provide a personal statement and references. Your personal statement should:

  • Highlight your skills and experience
  • Show strong examples of your teaching practice

How to write a teacher personal statement

Write a great teaching job application in 5 steps

Arrange your referees

Find your role

Search for teaching roles and filter to find the right one for you or look for roles in specific schools or trusts.

Find a teaching role at the right school

Prepare for your interview

Once you're invited for an interview, you should confirm your attendance with the school. You should also review the selection process requirements, which may include:

  • teaching a lesson
  • participating in a student panel
  • attending a formal interview

How to approach a teaching job interview

Prepare for a teaching interview lesson

Show how you meet the teachers’ standards

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