Posts

Step Through the Wardrobe, Chomp a Chocolate Bar, and Celebrate Wordly Wonders: World Book Day Teacher Dress-Up Showcase and your school could WIN!

/in /by

Attention, all Hogwarts Headmasters, Wonka-esque Wonderteachers, and Curious Caterpillars of the Classroom! It’s time to tumble down the rabbit hole (or should we say bookshelf?) of imagination for World Book Day!

We’re inviting you to embark on a magical adventure by showcasing your school’s teachers in their most creative book-inspired costumes. Think Mad Hatter meets Matilda, Willy Wonka with a dash of Where the Wild Things Are – the possibilities are as endless as the pages of a good book!

Why dress up, you ask? Well, as Alice might say, “Why, sometimes I’ve believed as many as six impossible things before breakfast!” And sparking a love of reading in young minds is definitely one of those impossibly awesome things. Seeing their beloved teachers transformed into literary heroes can ignite a child’s imagination and fuel their passion for books, just like Elmer’s vibrant colours brighten up the jungle.

Ready to join the literary extravaganza? Here’s the spell (err, I mean, steps) to cast:

Summon your inner bookworm: Encourage your teachers to unleash their inner Dumbledore, Hermione, or even the Very Hungry Caterpillar (don’t forget the book-shaped cookies!). The more creative, the merrier on Thursday 7th March (World Book Day, of course)!

Capture the magic: Don’t let these fantastic costumes fade like the Cheshire Cat’s grin! Snap photos of your teachers in their literary glory and send them to [email protected]

Share the wonder: Spread the bookish love on social media! Tag us and use #WBDTeacherDressUp to show off your school’s literary prowess.

Prizes fit for a literary champion:

First Place: A treasure trove of books – a large bundle to cater to any reading appetite!

Second Place: A medium-sized book chest, brimming with literary delights!

Third Place: A smaller, but no less magical, collection of stories to ignite young minds!

The best part? You choose the books! Select the age range, topics, or styles that best suit your school’s needs, just like the Hungry Caterpillar carefully munched his way through the week. So, unleash your creativity, channel your inner book character, and let’s celebrate the joy of reading together! Remember, as Dumbledore once said, “It is our choices, Harry, that show what we truly are, far more than our abilities.” Choose to celebrate books, choose to inspire young minds, and choose to join the #WBDTeacherDressUp adventure!

If you’re looking for a new challenge in a new school, we would love to hear from you!

Complete our online form and a member of the team will be in touch! Click here for the online form or give us a call on 01452 740001.

The Superheroes of the Classroom: Why Supply Teachers and TAs Are Essential for Primary Schools

/in /by

Imagine a primary school facing a sudden staff shortage. A key teacher falls ill, a specialist role needs temporary cover, or an unexpected influx of students requires additional support. What’s the solution? Enter the supply teachers and teaching assistants (TAs) – the unsung heroes who swoop in, cape flowing (well, maybe not literally), to ensure the smooth running of the school and continued learning for every child.

Here at Initial Education Recruitment, we see first-hand the immense value supply staff bring to primary schools. They’re not just a stopgap measure; they’re strategic assets that keep classrooms thriving. Let’s explore some key benefits:

Continuity and Seamless Transitions

When a regular teacher is absent, supply teachers step in seamlessly, maintaining established routines and lesson plans. This minimizes disruption for students, especially in crucial Key Stage 1 and 2 years, where consistent learning is paramount.

Specialist Skills and Fresh Perspectives

Supply teachers often possess diverse expertise across subjects or age groups. They bring fresh ideas and approaches, enriching the learning environment and sparking student curiosity. Imagine a supply teacher with a passion for STEM igniting a love of science in a Year 4 class!

Flexibility and Adaptability

The beauty of supply staff lies in their flexibility. They can cover short-term absences, cater to fluctuating student numbers, or provide targeted support for specific needs. This adaptability is invaluable, especially in today’s dynamic school environment.

Support for Teachers and TAs

Supply TAs offer invaluable support to classroom teachers, assisting with individual students, group work, or specific learning needs. This frees up teachers to focus on lesson delivery and curriculum planning, creating a more efficient and effective learning environment.

Reduced Teacher Workload

Let’s not forget the well-being of our dedicated teachers. Supply staff help alleviate workload by taking on administrative tasks, marking, or covering playground duties. This allows teachers to recharge and focus on what they do best – inspiring young minds.

At Initial Education, we work tirelessly to connect exceptional supply teachers and TAs with primary schools across Gloucestershire, Herefordshire & Worcestershire. We understand the unique challenges faced by schools and strive to provide highly qualified, experienced, and passionate individuals who can make a real difference.

If you’re a primary school seeking reliable and skilled supply staff, or a passionate educator looking for rewarding supply opportunities, contact Initial Education today. We’ll be your partner in creating a thriving learning environment for every child.

Remember, supply teachers and TAs are more than just temporary support; they’re essential members of the educational ecosystem, ensuring a bright future for our children.

If you’re looking for a new challenge in a new school, we would love to hear from you!

Complete our online form and a member of the team will be in touch! Click here for the online form or give us a call on 01452 740001.

A Guide to Positive Relationships with SEN Parents

/in /by

At Initial Education Recruitment, we know that strong partnerships between teachers and parents are crucial for every child’s success. This is especially true for children with Special Educational Needs (SEN). Navigating their unique learning journeys requires a team effort, built on a foundation of trust, open communication, and collaborative problem-solving.

That’s why we’ve put together this guide to help teachers build positive relationships with SEN parents:

Active Listening, Not Empty Promises

Listen with empathy: Acknowledge their concerns and anxieties without judgment. Put yourself in their shoes – navigating the SEN landscape can be overwhelming.

Focus on understanding: Ask open-ended questions to delve deeper into their child’s strengths, challenges, and home environment. This helps tailor learning strategies for consistent support across both settings.

Avoid jargon: Stick to clear, concise language, explaining any technical terms you use. Remember, you’re a team, not a translator.

Communication – A Two-Way Street

Regular updates: Don’t wait for formal meetings. Share progress reports, anecdotes, and observations through emails, phone calls, or even online platforms.

Be proactive: Reach out not just for negative news. Highlight positive achievements, no matter how small. Celebrating successes together strengthens the bond.

Embrace feedback: Encourage parents to share their input on strategies, resources, and even classroom adjustments. Collaboration thrives on shared expertise.

Transparency and Trust

Be honest and open: Address concerns head-on, even if the news is challenging. Transparency fosters trust and allows for joint problem-solving.

Share clear goals: Explain how you’re working towards these goals in the classroom and how they connect to home activities. Consistency is key.

Acknowledge limitations: No one has all the answers. Be open to seeking additional support or resources together, demonstrating a willingness to learn and grow alongside the parents.

Building on Strengths

Focus on the child’s potential, not just the disability: Highlight their unique talents, interests, and learning styles. Celebrating strengths empowers both the child and their parents.

Work together to identify their interests: Collaborate with parents to find engaging activities and learning methods that resonate with the child’s passions. This makes learning more meaningful and enjoyable.

Remember, they are the experts: Parents have intimate knowledge of their child’s needs and preferences. Value their insights and leverage their expertise to create a truly personalised learning experience.

By actively building positive relationships with SEN parents, teachers and teaching assistants can create a supportive and collaborative environment where children with special needs can thrive. Remember, open communication, empathy, and a shared commitment to the child’s success are the cornerstones of building bridges, not walls, in the SEN classroom. At Initial Education Recruitment, we’re passionate about connecting exceptional teachers and teaching assistants with schools that value collaboration and celebrate diversity. If you’re an educator dedicated to supporting SEN students, we’d love to hear from you!

If you’re looking for a new challenge in a new school, we would love to hear from you!

Complete our online form and a member of the team will be in touch! Click here for the online form or give us a call on 01452 740001.

Tips for teachers who feel like they are failing at school

/in /by

Feeling like you’re failing as a teacher can be incredibly disheartening, but it’s important to remember that teaching is a challenging profession, and everyone faces setbacks at times.

As specialists in education recruitment, Initial Education Recruitment have met many teachers, teaching assistants and SEN educators of the years. As a result, we have gained a good understanding of what can help you navigate those challenging moments and work towards improvement:

Reflect on your teaching methods

Take some time to reflect on your teaching strategies. Are there certain methods or approaches that seem less effective? Consider experimenting with new techniques to see what works best for your students.

See Feedback

Ask for feedback from colleagues, administrators, and even students. Constructive feedback can provide valuable insights into areas for improvement and help you identify your strengths.

Set realistic goals

Set achievable and realistic goals for yourself. Break down larger objectives into smaller, more manageable tasks. Celebrate small successes along the way to boost your confidence.

Focus on relationships

Building positive relationships with your students is crucial. Make an effort to connect with them on a personal level, understand their individual needs, and create a supportive learning environment.

Adapt to student needs

Students have diverse learning styles and needs. Be flexible and willing to adapt your teaching methods to better meet the needs of your students. Differentiate instruction when possible.

Use technology wisely

Explore how technology can enhance your teaching. There are numerous resources and tools available that can engage students and make learning more interactive and enjoyable.

Collaborate with colleagues

Share your challenges with colleagues and seek advice. Collaborative problem-solving can offer fresh perspectives and solutions that you might not have considered on your own.

Take care of yourself

Teaching can be emotionally and physically demanding. Make sure you’re taking care of your own well-being. Get enough rest, engage in activities you enjoy, and seek support from friends, family, or a professional if needed. We wrote a blog in the summer about making sure you take time to relax – https://initialrecruitment.com/how-to-relax-this-summer/ that may provide some ideas for you.

Mental health and well-being is something Initial Education are really passionate about. You can read more about this in our blog – https://initialrecruitment.com/how-staff-can-help-each-other-with-mental-health-and-wellbeing/

Continuous professional development

Stay committed to your own professional growth. Attend workshops, conferences, or training sessions to stay updated on new teaching methods and resources.

Celebrate progress, not perfection

Recognise that teaching is a journey, and improvement takes time. Celebrate the progress you and your students make, even if it’s incremental. Focus on the positive aspects of your teaching.

Connect with a mentor

If possible, seek out a mentor teacher who can provide guidance and support. They may share their own experiences and offer valuable advice based on their own teaching journey.

Remember that every teacher faces challenges, and it’s okay to ask for help. Persevere, stay open to learning, and know that you have the opportunity to make a positive impact on your students’ lives.

If you’re looking for a new challenge in a new school, we would love to hear from you!

Complete our online form and a member of the team will be in touch! Click here for the online form or give us a call on 01452 740001.

Navigating National Bullying Prevention Month

/in /by

Navigating National Bullying Prevention Month: A Teacher’s Guide to Managing Bullies in School

Educators play a crucial role in creating a safe and nurturing environment for students. October is National Bullying Prevention Month, an ideal time to renew the commitment to combat bullying in schools. Bullying can have long-lasting effects on a child’s physical and emotional well-being, making it essential for teachers to be proactive in addressing this issue. In this blog post, we’ll explore effective strategies for managing bullies in school and fostering a climate of respect and empathy.

Recognising the signs

The first step in addressing bullying as a teacher is to recognise the signs. Be vigilant and watch for behavioural changes in your students, such as withdrawal, declining academic performance, or a sudden reluctance to attend school. Encourage open communication with your students and create a safe space for them to share their concerns.

Establish clear classroom rules

Setting clear and consistent classroom rules is essential for maintaining order and preventing bullying. Ensure that your rules emphasise respect, kindness, and inclusivity. Discuss these rules with your students and involve them in creating a code of conduct for your classroom.

Foster Empathy and social-emotional learning

Teaching empathy is a powerful way to prevent bullying. Incorporate social-emotional learning (SEL) into your curriculum to help students understand and manage their emotions and develop empathy towards their peers. Activities such as group discussions, role-playing, and literature that explores empathy can be highly effective.

Implement a zero-tolerance policy

Make it clear that bullying will not be tolerated in your classroom or school. Establish a zero-tolerance policy for bullying and communicate it to students, parents, and colleagues. Consistently enforce consequences for bullying behaviour, ensuring that they are fair and in line with your school’s policies.

Encourage reporting

Many students may be hesitant to report bullying incidents out of fear or embarrassment. Create a safe reporting system that allows students to report bullying anonymously if they prefer. Assure students that their concerns will be taken seriously and that you will maintain their confidentiality.

Involve parents and guardians

Collaboration with parents and guardians is crucial in addressing bullying. Keep lines of communication open with families and inform them if their child is involved in a bullying incident, either as a victim or a perpetrator. Encourage parents to support anti-bullying efforts at home and in the community.

Promote Inclusivity and Diversity

Foster an inclusive classroom environment where students from diverse backgrounds feel valued and respected. Celebrate cultural differences and encourage students to appreciate the uniqueness of their peers. This can help reduce the risk of bullying based on differences.

Educate students about bullying

Dedicate time to educating your students about bullying, its consequences, and how to prevent it. Use age-appropriate resources and engage in meaningful discussions about the impact of bullying on individuals and the community.

Be a positive role model

Lead by example and demonstrate respectful and empathetic behaviour in your interactions with students and colleagues. Your actions and attitude can influence the classroom culture and set the tone for how students treat each other.

Navigating National Bullying Prevention Month serves as a reminder of our responsibility as educators to create safe and inclusive learning environments. By recognising the signs of bullying, establishing clear rules, fostering empathy, and involving all stakeholders, we can effectively manage bullies in school and work towards a future where every student feels valued, respected, and free from harm.

Together, we can make a lasting impact on the lives of our students and contribute to a more compassionate society.

Whether you’re looking for a teacher, teaching assistant or non-education role, Initial Education Recruitment could have the day to day, short term or long-term supply teaching contract for you whilst you search for your dream role.

If you’re looking for a new challenge in a new school, we would love to hear from you!

Complete our online form and a member of the team will be in touch! Click here for the online form or give us a call on 01452 740001.

Celebrating Teaching Assistants this Teaching Assistants Day, September 29th.

/in /by

Teaching Assistants are an integral part of the education system, providing support to teachers and pupils during their formative years. Their hard work often goes unnoticed, making it all the more important to recognise and celebrate Teaching Assistants’ Day.

These individuals play a vital role in the classroom, helping to create a positive and supportive learning environment for students. Working closely with teachers to develop lesson plans, providing one-on-one assistance to struggling students, and helping to manage classroom behaviour.

We meet many people at Initial Recruitment who are looking for a new role as a Teaching Assistant. In addition, we work with many schools in placing TAs in their setting. This helps us to really understand the qualities and experience required from the ideal Teaching Assistant.

Here are some ideas on how to celebrate Teaching Assistants on their special day:

Thank you notes for your TA’s

Encourage pupils, teachers, and other staff members to write heartfelt thank-you notes or letters expressing their appreciation for the TAs. These messages can highlight specific times when your Teaching Assistant’s support has made a significant difference.

Teaching Assistant Recognition Ceremony

Teaching Assistants can be acknowledged and celebrated for their efforts with a recognition ceremony. This can be done during a staff meeting, assembly or a special event dedicated to honouring their contributions. Provide certificates of appreciation, small tokens of gratitude, or personalised gifts.

Social Media Shout-Outs

Utilise your school’s social media platforms to publicly acknowledge and appreciate your Teaching Assistants. Share posts that highlight their positive impact, exceptional qualities, and contributions to the school and the class they work in. You can also encourage others to join in by using a designated hashtag to share their own messages of gratitude.

Classroom Surprise on Teaching Assistant’s Day

Coordinate with other teachers to surprise the school’s Teaching Assistants with a small celebration in the classroom. Put up decorations, bring in snacks or treats, and get pupils to participate in activities to showcase their appreciation.

Professional Development Opportunities

Offer Teaching Assistants the opportunity to enhance their skills and knowledge through workshops, training sessions, or professional development courses. A great way to show they are valued and supported!

Lunch or Tea Gathering on Teaching Assistants’ Day

Host a special lunch or afternoon tea gathering where Teaching Assistants can relax and enjoy some quality time together.

Highlight Success Stories

Share success stories of TAs who’ve made an impact on pupils’ lives or have gone above and beyond through newsletters, bulletin boards, or presentations to showcase their achievements and inspire others.

Despite the challenges they face, Teaching Assistants remain committed; driven by a passion for making a difference in the lives of children. By acknowledging their efforts for all they do, we can inspire them to continue making a positive impact.

On Teaching Assistants’ Day and every day, let us take a moment to thank these dedicated professionals for their hard work and unwavering commitment to our children’s education.

If you’re looking for a new teaching assistant role in a new school, we would love to hear from you!

Complete our online form and a member of the team will be in touch! Click here for the online form or give us a call on 01452 740001.

Helping children settle back in to school after the holidays.

/in /by

Helping children settle back into school after the holidays is an important task for teachers.

Returning to school can be a daunting experience for many children. It’s a teacher’s/teaching assistants’ responsibility to ensure that all of the pupils are school-ready and prepared to tackle the new academic year with confidence.

Here are some tips for getting your pupils back into the school routine and ready to learn.

Create a welcoming environment in class

Set up the classroom in a way that is inviting and familiar to the children. Make sure the spaces are clean, organised, and visually appealing. Consider displaying their pictures from the last academic year for familiarity or create a ‘Welcome Back’ bulletin board. (https://www.pinterest.co.uk/karinalvarez90/welcome-back-bulletin-boards/ )

Make time for talking to all the children

It’s important to remember that school is not just about the curriculum. Many children will have missed their school friends during the holidays, so it’s crucial to create an environment where they can catch up and reconnect. Create some class icebreaker games https://www.teachit.co.uk/cpd/teaching-and-learning/20-best-icebreakers ), group projects, or class team-building exercises (https://www.weareteachers.com/team-building-games-and-activities/) to help children reconnect with their classmates and peers.

Encourage the children to reflect on their holiday experiences and share any highlights. This can help limit any disruptions during focused learning time and boost confidence while easing anxieties.

Establish a routine in class

After a long break, it’s essential to re-establish a routine as quickly as possible.

Keep in mind that there may have been a discrepancy in the amount of work and listening done at home compared to what is expected at school. Plan your first week of lesson plans with this in mind, so that routine can be re-established naturally, and the children can reacquaint themselves with the daily schedule and the rules of the classroom.

Check in with your pupils

Some of your pupils may have had a difficult home life during the holidays, so it’s important to check in with them on their return to school. Building a rapport with your class, their parents, and key care workers will help make this easier for you to identify. Consider things that can be done in the classroom to help manage any overwhelm.

Remind your class of the basics, such as where the toilets are, that you are there to help, timelines, etc. Showcase areas of your classroom that may be a place of sanctuary for those feeling overwhelmed, such as book corners and quiet spaces.

Focus on the well-being of all the children

Recognise that some students may have mixed emotions about returning to school after a holiday. Adding wellbeing-focused activities to the start of term can help your class feel less overwhelmed and give you an insight into how they are feeling. Provide opportunities for students to express their feelings and offer support if needed.

For example, ask your class to draw an image of how they are feeling or choose a colour that represents their mood and explain why. The Colour Monster story (https://www.teachingideas.co.uk/library/books/the-colour-monster ) is always a great place to start. These activities not only help your class feel supported but also give you valuable information on who you may need to keep a closer eye on as the term starts.

Be mindful of hunger and tiredness

Sleep routines can often be lost during school holidays, and snacks throughout the day can increase. This can mean that when your class returns after the holidays, they may be struck by overwhelm, hunger, and tiredness.

Be sure not to plan too many high-intensity physical activities in the first week back, and perhaps look at your PE plan, keeping in mind that some children may not have been as active or well-rested during the holidays. If your timetable allows, add in a snack time or create a lesson plan that includes food, such as a DT lesson on making fruit cocktails or tasting new foods.

Support parents

The more informed your classes’ parents are regarding what makes the return to school easier for their children, the better the process will be. Most children deal with some level of stress or anxiety about school, added with a change in routine. Providing resources before the school holidays begin and just before they return is amazingly supportive. You can make these resources independently or link to your school’s website or government-provided resources.

Helping children settle back into school after the holidays can be challenging for both pupils and teachers. Remember, the key is to create a positive and supportive environment that helps children ease back into the school routine while fostering their academic and emotional growth.

By following these simple tips, you can help ease the transition and ensure that your pupils are ready to learn. Remember to prioritise communication and well-being, establish a routine, and provide support for both your pupils and their parents. With these strategies in place, you can help make the new academic year a success for everyone involved.

If you’re looking for a new teaching role in a new school, we would love to hear from you!

Complete our online form and a member of the team will be in touch!

Click here for the online form or give us a call on 01452 740001.

Interview tips for a teaching role

/in /by

We are often asked for interview tips when applying for a teaching role. So, to help you prepare for your Teacher interview, we have put together six tips that will give you a good base.

Interviews are an essential part of the job application process, and for teaching role, they can be particularly daunting. However, if you have made it to the interview stage, it means that the school is already interested in what you have to offer. The purpose of an interview is not just to test your technical knowledge, but also to assess whether you will fit in with the school’s ethos and work towards its goals.

Research the School

Before your interview, take some time to research the school. Find out what makes it different and why you want to work there. Look at the school’s website and local news articles to see if they have won any awards or started any new initiatives. This will show the interviewer that you are genuinely interested in working at their school.

Think of questions to ask in the interview

Prepare a list of questions to ask during the interview. This could include questions about the school’s culture, goals, and how you can contribute to them. Writing down your questions beforehand will show that you are prepared and interested in the role.

Prepare your pitch

Think about what makes you stand out as a teacher. Consider your teaching philosophy and style. Prepare examples of how you have made a positive impact in previous roles. This will help you sell yourself to the interviewer.

Look like a teacher

Dress smartly for your interview, but make sure you are comfortable. This will help you feel more confident and relaxed during the interview.

Be confident

Try to be confident during your interview, even if you don’t feel like it. The interviewer wants to see that as a teacher, you can command a classroom and engage with students effectively.

Relax

While it’s important to show that you can take charge of a classroom, it’s also essential to show that you can put your pupils at ease and work well with your colleagues. Try to be relaxed and friendly during your interview.

We hope our interview tips for a teaching role have helped! If you’re looking for a new teaching role in a new school, we would love to hear from you!

Complete our online form and a member of the team will be in touch!

Click here for the online form or give us a call on 07827 323208.

How staff can help each other with mental health and wellbeing

/in , /by

An issue that extends past one day or an awareness week, we discuss what you can do as a teacher to help each other to raise awareness and help to improve wellbeing within schools.

The theme of this year’s Mental Health Awareness Week is ‘anxiety’. Anxiety is a normal emotion in us all, but sometimes it can get out of control and become a mental health problem.

It should come as no surprise that school staff are experiencing more symptoms of poor mental health, with 77% experiencing symptoms due to their work.

We also know that great relationships at work can help you to deal with and share the stresses of school life.

Top tips to help a colleague who needs support –

Adapt your approach

Adapt your approach to each individual – remember not everyone communicates in the same way and what works for one person won’t work for another. If they’re finding it difficult to express themselves, let them know that you’re there when they are ready. Simply giving someone space to talk, and listening to how they’re feeling, can be really helpful in itself.

Be open

Be open and honest. Making yourself approachable can be pivotal in helping someone. Let your colleagues know that you can see they might be struggling and you’re there anytime that they may need some support.

Ask questions

Ask your colleague if you can help or if they need anything. Try and encourage an open dialogue, resisting the urge to simply ask how you can ‘fix’ the issue and focus on guiding conversations and ask instead how you can improve circumstances or make things better.

This can help pinpoint specific issues and often enables you to resolve them more efficiently than dancing around the subject.

Be kind

Express your empathy. Often the greatest gift we can someone else is the gift of empathy. It can sometimes be difficult for colleagues to show weakness at work, so be kind and take the time to listen and to offer reassurance.

Just be there

The organised chaos of a typical school day makes it hard to find the time to speak to a colleague who seems to be struggling, especially if you are also feeling the strain of work and life in general. Taking the time to just be there can really make a huge difference to someone’s day or even week and may even also help you to have open conversations and to share familiar struggles in the classroom.

If you’re looking for a new challenge or change of scenery, Initial Education would love to hear from you so please don’t hesitate to get in touch with by calling 01452 740001 or registering your interest here.

The lowdown on NQT teaching jobs.

/in , , /by

NQT’s ask us ‘When should I start looking for my first teaching job?’ a lot, and this is an interesting question. You started your PGCE in September and your fellow students are already talking about finding a job by December. This can make you feel rushed, but our advice is not to rush into it.

There’s a lot to consider when applying for your first teaching position. We hope this blog helps to answer some of your questions and helps to get your applications off to a great start.

When should NQT’s Apply?

Teacher positions can of course open at any time, but most commonly after Christmas for a September start date.

The peak time for applications though is between the start of March and the end of May. This is because Easter is the deadline for teachers to hand in their notice for the current school year. Some schools will advertise as early as January, while others may advertise as late as June or July, due to unforeseen circumstances.

It’s worth applying for roles, either permanent or temporary (or both), as soon as you’ve submitted your dissertation. Seeking a temp role as soon as you’ve completed your dissertation will allow you to:

  • Earn money in a relevant role
  • Gain valuable experience in a variety of schools while applying for permanent roles
  • Learn new skills
  • Boost your CV, helping you to stand out from the competition

The teacher recruitment timetable: what to do and when

Autumn term: Start looking early and don’t just apply to any school. Consider what’s important to you, the ethos, site, size and catchment of the school you’d like to work at. Autumn is a great time to do some research on the schools in your ideal area and to attend university recruitment fairs.

December and January: Local Authorities advertise vacancies and may have closing dates. In January, schools start directly advertising vacancies.

January to May: This is the busiest period for recruitment. Register with websites to receive updates on the latest opportunities. Make applications to teacher registration schemes and databases.

Consider registering with an agency for supply work. This experience will be incredibly valuable, giving you more to put on your CV to stand out, allowing you to gain valuable experience and another bonus, earn money.

31 May: The final date before which teachers leaving their jobs in the summer must resign, so more jobs appear around this time.

Where to Look

Most primary schools will advertise on their local authority website (look up local council education jobs) and in the local newspaper.

Secondary schools tend to use job websites.

Agencies are great resource also, with full-time and part-time contracts available, which could work around your studies and other commitments until you’re ready to start a new role in September. The more flexible you are, the more work you can get. As you get to know them more, you can work with the agencies to tell them your preferences and strengths.

Applications and CVs

Schools may have their own application form they would like you to complete. Sometimes this is a form set by the local authority. Other schools may request a CV and cover letter. Often the most difficult part of the application is the personal statement. This is where you explain why you would be the best candidate for the role.

Be very specific when completing the application form – tell them what you’ve done, focusing on your successes and giving as many examples from your time in the classroom as possible.

Personal statement

Write a strong 300 to 400-word personal statement; show you’ve done your research and understand something about the school you’re applying to, talk about your course and what you’d personally bring to that school. Get some feedback on your form before you send it off.

Here are a few helpful tips to tick off as you write your personal statement:

  • tailor your application to the school, for example their ethos, Ofsted report and latest exam results
  • visit the school, as many recruiters view this as a part of the application process and it can help you to see if you would want to work there
  • get it proofread to ensure there are no spelling mistakes
  • ensure your employment history has no gaps and if it has make sure they’re explained
  • tell them what skills and extracurricular opportunities you can bring
  • convey a passion for teaching
  • evidence your success, where you bring added value and have met targets.

Managing Expectations

Finding the perfect role can take time, and sometimes it takes a while to get into the flow of interviews. Some people will find this easier than others. It’s important to persevere and have someone to talk to who can support you during this potentially difficult time.

Good Luck!

If you’d like to get in touch with Initial Education to understand how we could help you, give us a call on 01452 740001 or you can register your interest here.