Teaching jobs in London in 2026 offer competitive pay, steady career growth, and mostly in-person roles with a few hybrid options for specialist or leadership positions. Salaries vary by experience, but new teachers can expect a strong starting package with London weighting, while experienced educators, especially in shortage subjects, often earn significantly more.
Most roles require QTS or equivalent experience, and schools are keen to hire teachers who bring confidence, patience, and a real love for working with young people.
Why London Will See Higher Teacher Demand:
1. Ongoing teacher shortages
Schools across the UK continue to experience gaps, especially in STEM, languages, and early years education. London boroughs are expected to hire more educators to fill long-standing vacancies.
2. Rising student numbers
Many boroughs are seeing growth due to population shifts. More students means more classrooms and more teachers.
3. Expanded wellbeing and enrichment programs
Schools are investing in mental-health support, digital learning, and extracurriculars. These programs open the door to roles beyond traditional teaching.
Most In-Demand Teaching Roles:
- Primary teachers
Strong demand across most boroughs, especially for teachers with phonics or early literacy expertise. - Secondary teachers
Maths, physics, chemistry, and computer science remain top priorities. Schools are also seeking strong English and humanities teachers. - SEND specialists
The need for Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) teachers continues to climb. Experience with EHCPs, autism support, or behavioural needs will make your application stand out. - Support staff
Teaching assistants, learning mentors, behaviour specialists, and pastoral leaders will see more openings.
Benefits:
1. Competitive Salaries
Teachers enjoy some of the highest pay in the UK, with London weighting boosting starting salaries and extra earnings for experienced staff, especially in shortage subjects.
2. Career Growth Opportunities
With high demand across primary, secondary, and SEND roles, London schools offer clear paths to leadership, specialist roles, and professional development.
3. In-Person and Hybrid Options
Most roles are in-person, fostering meaningful student connections, while select leadership or specialist positions may offer hybrid flexibility.
4. Diverse and Dynamic Work Environment
London classrooms are vibrant and multicultural, giving teachers exposure to diverse learners and a wide range of teaching experiences.
5. Additional Perks
Many schools provide extra benefits, including professional development programs, wellbeing initiatives, mentoring support, and sometimes relocation assistance.
6. Make a Real Impact
Beyond pay and perks, teaching in London allows you to influence students’ lives, support communities, and contribute to innovative programs in wellbeing, digital learning, and extracurriculars.
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Skills Schools Want:
- Confident classroom management
- Strong grasp of digital tools
- Adaptability with diverse learners
- Experience with inclusive teaching
- Solid communication with parents and staff
London schools value teachers who can bring stability, creativity, and a calm presence to fast-paced environments.
Salary Expectations in London:
Teacher pay varies by borough and experience, but London offers some of the highest rates in the UK.
New teachers can expect a competitive starting salary, with additional London weighting. Experienced educators and those in shortage subjects can often negotiate higher pay or additional benefits.
Best Boroughs to Find Teaching Jobs:
While openings appear across the city, these areas typically recruit heavily:
- East London: New schools, rapid population growth
- South London: High demand for primary and SEND teachers
- North & West London: Strong need for secondary subject specialists
How to Secure Teacher Jobs in London UK?
1. Update your QTS or relevant credentials
Qualified Teacher Status is essential for most roles. International teachers may need to apply for recognition or complete required assessments.
2. Get classroom experience
Schools favour candidates with recent, hands-on experience.
3. Network early
Recruiters, education fairs, and school open days often lead to early offers.
4. Build a standout CV
Highlight impact student progress, leadership roles, and specialist skills.
5. Apply ahead of peak season
Many London schools start hiring between January and May for the following academic year.
Conclusion:
London’s teaching landscape in 2026 offers strong salaries, growing opportunities, and a high demand for skilled educators across primary, secondary, and SEND roles. Schools want teachers who bring confidence, digital readiness, and genuine care to fast-paced classrooms. With updated credentials, early applications, and a standout CV, it’s a promising year to build a meaningful teaching career in the capital.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What is the average starting salary for teachers in London?
New teachers can expect a competitive starting salary with London weighting, giving them one of the highest entry-level pay rates in the UK. Experienced educators, especially in shortage subjects, often earn significantly more.
Which teaching subjects are in highest demand in London?
Primary literacy and phonics, STEM subjects (maths, physics, chemistry, computer science), English, humanities, and SEND support are currently in high demand.
Are teaching roles in London mostly in-person or remote?
Most teaching roles are in-person to allow direct interaction with students. A few hybrid options exist, mainly for leadership or specialist positions.
