Primary Teaching

As a Primary Teacher, you will develop and nurture young children by the creation of exciting lessons plans that meet with curriculum objectives. You will be required to establish a relationship with the children, to ensure you create a safe, exciting and relaxed learning environment.

There are three levels within Primary schools in England that follow the National Curriculum.

• Foundation Stage - nursery and reception (ages three to five)
• Key Stage 1 - years one and two (ages five to seven)
• Key Stage 2 – years three to six (ages seven to eleven)

Download and read through the National Curriculum to ensure you are aware and up to date on the latest requirements.

Salary

The salary for a Primary Teacher is determined by the National Teachers Main Pay Scales. Your position on the pay scale depends on the area you work in, your qualifications and experience. As a guide you can expect to earn:

After gaining experience and expertise you have the opportunity to undertake further responsibilities, or progress into leadership and head of year roles where salaries start at £45,646 and can rise to £147,586.

Hours of work & environment

Working as a Primary Teacher is a full-time role. You will generally work 37 hours a week for 39 weeks a year which is split over 3 school terms. Hours vary from school to school but are usually from 8:30am to 4pm. However, you will spend outside of your working hours planning lessons, marking work and participating in activities such as parent's evening, trips, school inspections and training – which could mean you exceed your 37 hours a week.

The upside of working longer hours is that teachers do receive 13 weeks' holiday per year.

Career path & progression

With experience and knowledge, you will be able to progress into an array of senior roles including leadership and curriculum roles as well as deputy head and head teacher.