All careers
Education
Teacher
Help young people learn, grow and find their own paths.
Key skills
CommunicationPatienceSubject knowledgeOrganisation
Ways in
UniversityApprenticeship
Typical prerequisites
- Degree + QTS (PGCE, School Direct or teacher degree apprenticeship)
Alternative routes
- Teaching assistant
- Further education lecturer
- Youth worker
Route milestones
- 1
Degree
Around year 0–3
- 2
Teacher training (QTS)
Around year 3–4
- 3
Early career teacher
Around year 4–6
- 4
Head of dept / headteacher
Around year 8+
Progression: ECT → classroom teacher → middle leader → senior leader.
Indicative pay bands
Starting out£32,000 – £38,000
Experienced£42,000 – £50,000
Senior / top end£55,000 – £100,000
Indicative example estimates compiled October 2026 for planning conversations only. Pay varies by region, employer, sector and hours. Always verify with official sources such as the National Careers Service.
Verify on National Careers ServiceContribution & impact
Multiplies opportunity for every pupil you teach.