The right job
Before you apply for a job, ask for a job specification and check your skills and experience against this to make sure that you’re the sort of person they are looking for – and that this is the sort of job you want!
Make sure the age group and subject range suits your experience. Are there any extra-curricular or pastoral responsibilities as part of the role? Check the location – what’s the journey time like? Would you be willing to move closer if need be? If at all possible, arrange to visit schools before you submit an application. Ask for a tour of the school – preferably with students during the school day – and for the opportunity to talk informally with staff about the job and the school. If it’s a nice place to work, the headteacher will be all too happy to let you talk to staff and students. And if you like what you see and decide to apply for the job, the headteacher is bound to be impressed by your interest and enthusiasm.
Improve this section of the Starting Out Guide
What would you add to this section of our Starting Out Guide to help newly qualified teachers? Maybe you have an experience, annectdote, resource or idea you'd like to share. Read what other teachers have added and make your additions here.