The United Kingdom continues to experience a critical teacher shortage across primary, secondary, and specialist education sectors. As a result, the UK government is expanding recruitment pathways for international teachers, offering visa sponsorship, relocation incentives, and simplified qualification routes for 2026 and beyond.
If you’re a trained or aspiring teacher from countries, this 2026 Guide will help you understand everything about teaching and education jobs in the UK, including salaries, visa options, required qualifications, eligibility, and how to apply.
Why the UK Is Hiring International Teachers in 2026
The UK education system is facing one of the largest shortages in decades. The reasons include:
- Experienced teachers retiring
- Declining interest in teaching among UK graduates
- High demand for STEM, languages, and SEN teachers
- Rapid increase in student enrollment
- Expansion of academies and free schools
To fill gaps, schools are actively recruiting qualified teachers from overseas and offering Skilled Worker Visa sponsorship.
Most In-Demand Teaching Roles for 2026:
- Mathematics teachers
- Physics teachers
- Chemistry teachers
- English Language teachers
- Computer Science teachers
- Design & Technology teachers
- Special Education Needs (SEN) teachers
- Primary school teachers
- Early childhood educators
Expected Salaries for Teachers in the UK (2026 Estimates)
Teaching is one of the most stable and respected careers in the UK, with competitive pay and excellent benefits. Salaries depend on region, experience, and qualifications.
Average Salary Breakdown:
| Region | Starting Salary | Experienced Teachers |
| England (excluding London) | £30,000 – £32,000 | £41,000 – £48,000 |
| Outer London | £34,500 – £36,000 | £45,000 – £52,000 |
| Inner London | £36,500 – £38,500 | £50,000 – £57,000 |
| Specialist STEM Teachers | £40,000+ | £55,000–£65,000 |
| SEN Teachers | £32,000 – £45,000 | £45,000–£60,000 |
International teachers can also qualify for relocation payments up to £10,000 in approved subjects.
Do You Need a Degree to Teach in the UK?
Yes — to become a teacher in the UK, you generally need:
- A bachelor’s degree
- A teaching qualification (PGCE, B.Ed, or equivalent)
- The ability to gain QTS (Qualified Teacher Status)
However, the UK now offers alternative routes for international applicants, especially in shortage subjects.
You may be eligible even if:
- You don’t have UK QTS
- Your teaching qualification is from outside the UK
- You have relevant work experience
- You meet English language requirements
What International Teachers Must Know
QTS is essential for teaching in many UK schools, especially public (state) schools. But the UK has made it easier for foreign teachers to get QTS through several routes:
- Apply for QTS Through the Teachers Registration Service
Recognize qualifications from eligible countries.
- Apply for QTS Without Additional Training
If your degree and teaching license meet UK standards.
- Apply for the iQTS (International Qualified Teacher Status) Programme
A fully online and globally recognized qualification designed for overseas teachers.
- Train in the UK via the PGCE Programme
Visa Options for International Teachers in the UK
International teachers can apply through several visa categories:
- Skilled Worker Visa (Most Common)
Schools and academies can sponsor teachers if:
- You have a job offer
- You meet the salary threshold
- You speak English proficiently
Key Benefits:
- Work for up to 5 years
- Bring dependents
- Route to UK Permanent Residency (ILR)
- High Potential Individual (HPI) Visa
For graduates from top global universities.
- Graduate Visa (For those who studied in the UK)
Allows you to stay and work for 2–3 years after completing a degree.
- Youth Mobility Visa (18–30 years)
Allows temporary work, including teaching assistant roles.
- Education Worker Visa
Introduced for 2025–2026 as a simplified route for teaching professionals.
Eligibility Requirements for International Teaching Jobs in the UK
Core Requirements:
- A university degree
- Fluency in English
- Teaching experience (preferred)
- Police clearance certificate
- Health and tuberculosis test
- Ability to relocate
- A valid international passport
Additional Requirements:
- Strong subject knowledge
- Classroom management skills
- Willingness to undergo background checks
- Verified academic transcripts
Top Education Roles Available for International Applicants
- Primary School Teacher
Teach ages 5–11 in English, Mathematics, and Science.
- Secondary School Teacher
Teach subjects such as Physics, Biology, Geography, History, and more.
- SEN Teacher
Support children with special needs.
- Teaching Assistant
Entry-level role with fewer requirements.
- Early Childhood Educator
Work in nurseries and childcare centers.
- Higher Education Lecturer
Teach at universities (requires advanced degrees).
- STEM Educator
Extremely high demand and excellent pay.
Benefits of Working as a Teacher in the UK
International teachers enjoy:
- Excellent salary packages
- Paid holidays (up to 13 weeks annually)
- Pension contributions
- Visa sponsorship
- Travel and relocation packages
- Opportunities for career growth
- Access to UK professional development programs
Many schools also help foreign teachers with:
- Airport pickup
- Temporary accommodation
- Classroom support
- Free mentorship programs
Top UK Recruitment Agencies Hiring International Teachers (2026)
Recruitment agencies play a major role in connecting schools with foreign teachers.
Some of the best include:
- Engage Education
- Hays Education
- Teaching Personnel
- eTeach International
- Career Teachers
- TimePlan Education (known for visa sponsorship)
- Prospero Teaching
- Academics Ltd
How to Apply for Teaching Jobs in the UK (Step-by-Step Guide)
Step 1: Prepare Your Documents
Gather:
- Degree certificate
- Teaching license
- Updated CV
- References
- Passport
- Police clearance
- IELTS/English certificate
Step 2: Search for Sponsorship Schools
Use:
- Gov.uk Teaching Vacancies Portal
- TES (Times Educational Supplement)
- Indeed UK
- eTeach
- Recruitment agencies
Search keywords:
- “Teacher visa sponsorship UK 2026”
- “Maths teacher sponsorship UK”
- “Primary school teacher relocation package”
Step 3: Apply and Attend Virtual Interviews
Most interviews happen online via Zoom or Teams.
Step 4: Get a Job Offer + Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
This document is required to apply for your visa.
Step 5: Apply for the Skilled Worker Visa
Submit:
- CoS
- Passport
- Financial proof (if needed)
- Police clearance
- TB test certificate
Step 6: Relocate to the UK
Once approved, you can begin your teaching job and enjoy full employment benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Can I teach in the UK without QTS?
Yes — especially in academies and free schools. However, earning QTS increases your salary and job security.
- Can fresh graduates apply?
Yes. Many schools hire teachers with limited experience.
- Can I bring my family?
Yes, Skilled Worker Visa holders can bring dependents.
- What is the age limit for teachers?
No official age limit, as long as you’re medically fit to work.
- Which subjects are most in demand?
Maths, Physics, Chemistry, Computing, Languages, and SEN.
Conclusion
If you’re an international teacher looking to advance your career, the UK is one of the best destinations in the world. With visa sponsorship, competitive salaries, relocation assistance, and a high demand for educators across all levels, 2026 presents a golden opportunity to secure a stable and rewarding job in the UK education sector.
Whether you’re a primary teacher, STEM specialist, or teaching assistant, there are thousands of openings ready to be filled by qualified overseas applicants.
