Australians have always been popular as teachers in British schools. There is a long tradition of under-30s acquiring the Youth Mobility Scheme visa, which allows them to live and work in the UK for two years. Now, with chronic levels of under-staffing, demand is soaring for Antipodean teachers and those planning to do some teaching abroad are able to pick and choose where they would like to work.
Shortage of teachers with qualified teacher status in Britain
One in six teachers in state schools in England is from overseas. The shortages are particularly acute in primary schools and in the subjects of maths, physics and chemistry. This trend is set to continue, as for the third year in a row, the Department of Education in the UK has confirmed that one in five of its secondary teacher training places has not been filled. This gaping hole in recruitment level is worsened by the fact that so many qualified teachers are considering leaving the profession. A poll commissioned by the National Union of Teachers by YouGov in October 2015 found an alarming half of current teachers were considering quitting. This leaves the doors wide open for overseas recruitment, which is absolutely necessary to make up the massive shortfall.
Further evidence of the crisis
Internal recruitment and retention of teaching staff is at such a low in Britain that schools are having to use large proportions of their dwindling budgets to advertise positions vacant. In 2015, secondary schools struggling to fill vacancies spent a total of £56m in advertising. In such a climate, it is not surprising that applications from willing and eager overseas teachers are thoroughly welcomed.
Australian attitude is a bonus
Not only are Australian teachers welcomed to take up otherwise empty places, they are also appreciated for their positive approach and personality. UK schools are regulated and inspected by the Office for Standards in Children’s Education, Children’s Services and Skills (OFSTED) and if they judge a school to be failing, it is placed in “special measures.” Many headteachers in these difficult situations purposefully recruit Australian staff for their resilient attitude and willingness to “give it a go.” Recruitment agencies confidently expect numbers to double for the next academic year for teachers applying from Australia and also from New Zealand and Canada. The flexibility and adaptability of overseas candidates is highly valued by British Heads.
Similarities in teacher training and salary expectation
Australia’s four year Bachelor of Education degree, part of the australian qualifications, is highly respected in Britain, and is often compared favourably to the UK standard which tends to be a degree in a specific subject followed by a year post-graduate in teaching (PGCE). Australians tend to have a second teachable subject, and this is a great bonus at secondary level. Salary levels are roughly equivalent with the average day’s pay being £170. There are more annual holidays in the UK with a week’s break in the middle of each term, known as half term. Overseas teachers recruited through an agency will not be entitled to holiday pay so it is worth budgeting for those breaks.
Eligibility and Qualifications
To teach in England, Australian teachers need to meet specific eligibility criteria and qualifications, primarily the Qualified Teacher Status (QTS). QTS is the professional status that teachers in England gain at the end of their teacher training. For non-UK teachers, including Australians, obtaining QTS is crucial for teaching in English schools.
Australian teachers can apply for QTS if they have completed teacher training and hold a teaching qualification from a recognized Australian institution. The professional recognition service helps assess the qualifications and experience of overseas teachers, ensuring they meet the consistent standards required for teaching in the UK. This process not only validates their teaching qualification but also opens doors to numerous teaching opportunities across England.
Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)
Range of Teaching Roles Available
In England, there is a diverse range of teaching roles available, catering to various educational levels and specializations. From primary to secondary schools, and from special educational needs (SEN) to further education, the opportunities are vast. As a qualified teacher, you can apply for teaching jobs in subjects like languages, maths, science, and humanities.
For Australian teachers, teaching in England offers a unique chance to gain international experience and enhance their teaching skills. The UK government’s official Teaching Vacancies service and specialized recruitment agencies are excellent resources for finding teaching jobs. These platforms provide a comprehensive list of available positions, making it easier for Australian teachers to find roles that match their qualifications and interests.
Supply or long-term teaching posts
With the job market so wide open, Australian teachers do not have to compromise on where and how they would like to secure a teaching job. The regional centres are crying out for staff just as much as the inner-cities, where conditions might be tough and many pupils may not have English as their first language. Those who have taken on these challenging positions speak highly of the steep learning curve they undergo, and feel it makes them into outstanding teachers with talents they are proud to take home. The additional responsibilities and opportunity to command their own classroom makes longer-term placements more appealing to many.
Supply teaching is more sporadic and does not allow the chance to get to know the children and feel you are making a difference. However, it does fit in better for those who wish to incorporate European travels and not have a fixed itinerary. Supply teaching is a good option for teachers when they first arrive as it allows them to try out various localities and decide if they would like to commit to a longer period. It also assists with becoming familiar with the British curriculum. Supply positions occur throughout the year and can even be started mid-term.
Skilled worker visa extensions
Owing to the over-riding popularity of Australian teachers in British schools, more and more are being offered sponsorship through the skilled worker visa. This allows for an extension to the original two year visa. Although it is generally agreed that teaching is a tougher job in the UK, largely owing to the stringencies imposed by OFSTED (to which there is no Australian equivalent), those offered sponsorship are often keen to stay. Many believe that the coping strategies they adopt in the British system make them better teachers. To summarise, the door is wide open for Australian teachers to teach in the UK. Severe teacher shortage and a stellar reputation for excellence makes Australians a number one choice for both primary and secondary establishments.
Life as a Teacher in England
School Holidays and Work-Life Balance
Teaching in England comes with a structured schedule of school holidays, including summer, autumn, and spring breaks, along with a half-term break in the middle of each term. This allows teachers to enjoy regular intervals of rest and recuperation throughout the academic year.
While teaching in England can be demanding, it also offers numerous opportunities for professional development and career progression. A standard teaching contract typically includes 195 days of teaching and 5 inset days dedicated to professional development. This structure ensures that teachers have ample time for further training and skill enhancement.
Australian teachers may find the teaching culture in England different from what they are accustomed to, but they will also discover many similarities. The opportunity to share their expertise and learn from their colleagues can be incredibly rewarding. Additionally, joining professional organizations like the National Education Union (NEU) can help teachers stay updated with the latest developments in education and expand their professional network.
In summary, teaching in England provides Australian teachers with a balanced work-life schedule, ample professional development opportunities, and a chance to make a significant impact in the classroom.
