School Teacher Jobs in UK with Visa Sponsorship, 2025

Types of Teaching Positions Open to Foreign Nationals

The UK education system offers a wide variety of teaching roles suitable for international candidates, reflecting the diversity of its schools and the evolving demands of its curriculum. Understanding the types of teaching positions available is crucial for foreign teachers planning to work in the UK under visa sponsorship.

Primary School Teaching

Primary education in the UK covers children aged 4 to 11 and is fundamental in shaping students’ academic foundations. Primary teachers are usually generalists responsible for teaching multiple subjects including English, maths, science, and social studies.

• Demand: There is consistent demand for qualified primary teachers, especially in subjects like maths and literacy.

• Qualifications: A degree and Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) or recognized equivalent are typically required.

• Settings: State-funded schools, academies, and independent schools all offer primary teaching roles.

Secondary School Teaching

Secondary education serves students aged 11 to 18, divided into lower secondary (Key Stage 3) and upper secondary (Key Stage 4 and sixth form). Secondary teachers often specialize in one or two subjects.

• High Demand Subjects: STEM subjects (Science, Technology, Engineering, Maths), Modern Foreign Languages, English, and Special Educational Needs (SEN) teaching are especially sought after.

• Specialist Roles: Teachers may specialize in subjects such as physics, chemistry, biology, maths, computer science, French, Spanish, and others.

• Qualifications: A relevant degree in the subject and QTS are mandatory for visa sponsorship eligibility.

Special Educational Needs (SEN) Teaching

SEN teachers work with children and young people who have learning difficulties, disabilities, or behavioral challenges.

• Growing Demand: Increasing awareness and inclusive education policies have led to rising demand for SEN specialists.

• Skills Required: Expertise in specific disabilities, individualized education plans (IEPs), and experience with therapeutic and behavioral interventions.

• Qualifications: Often requires additional SEN-specific qualifications on top of standard teaching credentials.

Further Education (FE) and Vocational Teaching

Some foreign teachers may qualify to teach in further education colleges or vocational training centers, offering courses to students aged 16 and over.

• Subjects: Technical, vocational, and academic subjects such as engineering, healthcare, business, and IT.

• Requirements: Relevant teaching qualifications and experience in the vocational area, plus QTS or equivalent in some cases.

Temporary and Supply Teaching Roles

Supply or temporary teaching positions fill short-term vacancies and can be a stepping stone for foreign teachers entering the UK education sector.

• Flexibility: These roles offer opportunities to gain UK teaching experience.

• Visa Sponsorship: Not all supply agencies offer visa sponsorship, so candidates should verify this before applying.

Leadership and Management Positions

For experienced teachers, roles such as Head of Department, Deputy Head, or Head Teacher are possible.

• Qualifications: Extensive teaching experience and leadership qualifications or certifications.

• Visa Considerations: Sponsorship may be available but depends on the institution’s needs and licensing status.

Visa Sponsorship Options for International Teachers

Securing a visa with sponsorship is a critical step for foreign teachers aiming to work legally in the UK. Understanding the visa pathways, their requirements, and the sponsorship process helps candidates prepare their applications efficiently.

3.1 The Skilled Worker Visa

The Skilled Worker Visa is the primary route for foreign teachers seeking sponsored employment in the UK. It replaced the Tier 2 (General) work visa in late 2020 and is designed to attract skilled professionals in shortage occupations, including teaching roles.

• Eligible Occupations: Teachers of various subjects such as secondary mathematics, physics, chemistry, computing, modern foreign languages, and primary education teachers are on the Shortage Occupation List (SOL), which simplifies visa requirements.

• Sponsorship: Applicants must have a job offer from a UK-registered sponsor (usually a school or academy) who will provide a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS).

• Salary Threshold: The job must meet minimum salary requirements (typically £26,200 per year or £12.75 per hour, but often higher depending on experience and role).

• English Language Requirement: Demonstrating proficiency in English (usually through approved tests or qualifications) is mandatory.

• Duration and Extensions: The visa is usually granted for up to 5 years with the possibility of extension and eventual settlement (Indefinite Leave to Remain).

3.2 Other Visa Pathways Relevant to Teachers

• Global Talent Visa: Designed for highly skilled individuals recognized as leaders or emerging leaders in their fields, including education researchers or experts. This visa allows more flexibility but requires endorsement by a relevant UK body.

• Temporary Worker – Government Authorized Exchange Visa: For teachers coming to the UK on approved exchange programs or placements, typically short-term.

• Graduate Visa: For international graduates from UK universities, this visa allows staying for two years post-study, which can be used to gain UK teaching experience but does not provide direct sponsorship.

3.3 Sponsorship Process Overview

• Find a Sponsor: Candidates must secure a job offer from a school or educational institution licensed to sponsor foreign workers.

• Certificate of Sponsorship: The employer issues a CoS, a unique reference number essential for the visa application.

• Visa Application: Submit the application with supporting documents, including the CoS, proof of English, and financial evidence.

• Health Surcharge and Biometrics: Payment of the immigration health surcharge and attendance at biometric appointment are required.

Licensing and Certification Requirements

Before commencing work, foreign teachers must meet the UK’s professional standards to ensure quality education delivery and compliance with regulations.

1 Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)

• What is QTS? Qualified Teacher Status is the official recognition that a person is qualified to teach in state-maintained schools in England and Wales.

• How to Obtain QTS:

  • Teachers trained in the UK usually acquire QTS through their initial teacher training.

  • International teachers must apply for QTS through the Teaching Regulation Agency (TRA) by submitting their overseas qualifications for assessment.

  • The process includes verifying credentials, proof of practical teaching experience, and evidence of English proficiency.

• Scotland and Northern Ireland: Have separate registration bodies (e.g., General Teaching Council for Scotland). Teachers intending to work in these regions must follow their respective procedures.

2 Recognition of Overseas Qualifications

• Qualification Equivalency: The TRA assesses international degrees and teacher training programs to confirm equivalency with UK standards.

• Academic and Professional Requirements: Typically, candidates need a bachelor’s degree and a recognized teacher training qualification.

• Additional Assessments: Some teachers may be asked to complete a skills test or demonstrate classroom experience.

3 Registration with the Teaching Regulation Agency (TRA)

• Registration is mandatory to teach in most publicly funded schools.

• It ensures teachers meet standards of conduct and professionalism.

• International teachers should register as soon as possible after obtaining a job offer.

4 Criminal Background Checks

• Teachers must pass Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks in England and Wales, or equivalent checks in Scotland and Northern Ireland, to work with children and vulnerable adults.

How to Secure a Sponsored Teaching Job in the UK

Finding a teaching job with visa sponsorship in the UK involves careful planning, thorough research, and strategic application methods. Here’s a step-by-step guide to maximize your chances:

1 Research and Targeting Suitable Schools

• Identify Shortage Areas: Focus on regions and subjects with high demand, such as London, the Midlands, and Northern England, or subjects like mathematics, physics, chemistry, computing, and modern foreign languages.

• Look for Licensed Sponsors: Only schools licensed by the Home Office can sponsor Skilled Worker visas. Use the official list of licensed sponsors (available at the UK government website) to verify potential employers.

• Types of Schools: Consider a variety of schools — state-funded schools, academies, free schools, and independent schools. While independent schools often do not sponsor visas, some larger academies do.

2 Job Search Platforms and Recruitment Agencies

• Official Job Portals:

  • GOV.UK Teach Vacancies – The official UK government portal for teaching jobs.

  • Tes.com – Popular for international teachers and offers sponsorship listings.

  • Eteach.com – Another major platform with UK education jobs.

• Recruitment Agencies:
  Agencies specializing in education recruitment often assist foreign teachers with visa sponsorship. Examples include Randstad Education, Protocol Education, and Hays Education. They also provide guidance on the application and visa process.

3 Preparing Your Application Materials

• Curriculum Vitae (CV):

  • Tailor your CV to UK standards: concise, clear, and focused on relevant teaching experience and qualifications.

  • Highlight achievements such as student progress, innovative teaching methods, and extracurricular involvement.

• Cover Letter:

  • Personalize for each school. Show understanding of the school’s ethos and explain how your skills meet their needs.

• Teaching Portfolio:

  • Include lesson plans, assessments, and references if possible.

  • Be prepared to discuss these during interviews.

4 Applying and Interviewing

• Application: Submit your application through the school’s website or the job portal. Ensure all documents are complete to avoid delays.

• Interview Preparation:

  • Expect questions about your teaching philosophy, classroom management, and subject knowledge.

  • Be ready for scenario-based questions and possibly a demonstration lesson.

  • Research the school thoroughly to ask insightful questions.

• Follow-up: Send a polite thank-you email after interviews to reinforce your interest.

5 Securing a Job Offer and Sponsorship Certificate

• Once you receive a job offer, confirm the school’s sponsorship eligibility.

• The school issues a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) required for your visa application.

• Confirm the start date and visa processing timeline to plan your move accordingly.

Salary Expectations and Career Progression for Teachers in the UK

Understanding salary structures and career advancement opportunities helps foreign teachers plan their professional and personal lives in the UK.

1 Salary Scales

• National Pay Scales:
  Teaching salaries in England and Wales are regulated by national pay scales, which vary by region. London and some parts of the South East offer higher pay to reflect the cost of living.

• Starting Salaries:

  • Newly qualified teachers (NQTs) can expect starting salaries ranging from approximately £28,000 to £32,000 annually, depending on location.

• Experienced Teachers:

  • Salaries rise with experience and responsibilities, reaching upwards of £40,000 to £45,000 for mid-career teachers.

  • Teachers in leadership roles (Heads of Department, Senior Leadership Team) can earn significantly more.

2 Additional Pay and Benefits

• Allowances:

  • Teaching in shortage subjects or challenging locations may qualify for recruitment and retention incentives.

  • Some schools offer performance-related bonuses or additional payments for extra duties.

• Pension Scheme:
  Teachers in the UK are entitled to join the Teachers’ Pension Scheme, a generous defined benefit scheme providing retirement income.

• Paid Leave:
  Annual leave and school holidays are generally included, but contract terms vary between institutions.

3 Career Progression Opportunities

• Professional Development:

  • The UK encourages ongoing professional development through courses, workshops, and certifications.

  • Teachers can pursue National Professional Qualifications (NPQs) in areas such as leadership or special education needs.

• Leadership Roles:

  • Experienced teachers can move into roles such as Head of Year, Department Head, Deputy Headteacher, or Headteacher.

  • Leadership training and additional qualifications are often necessary.

• Specialist Roles:

  • Becoming a SEN coordinator, curriculum specialist, or educational consultant are alternative career paths.

4 Geographic and Sectoral Differences

• Regional Variations:
  Salaries and opportunities can differ widely between England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland due to devolved education systems.

• Public vs. Private:
  Independent schools often offer competitive salaries but may have different visa sponsorship policies.