Primary school teachers work in state and independent schools. They instruct a class of children in all subjects of the primary National Curriculum.

What primary school teachers do

• act as a tutor and facilitate learning by establishing relationships with pupils
• create a positive learning environment and motivate pupils with enthusiastic and imaginative presentation
• ensure the optimum development of children, according to age, ability and aptitude
• plan lessons and educational activities
• monitor progress and prepare pupils for National Curriculum tests
• discuss students’ progress with parents
• organise and take part in extracurricular activities and events, such as visits and clubs.

Key skills for primary school teachers

• supervisory and leadership skills
• good listening skills and patience
• willingness to teach a range of subjects
• imagination and ability to explain things in an interesting and creative way
• ability to form relationships and to motivate
• ability to handle challenging behaviour and demonstrate assertiveness
• time-management, and administrative and organisational skills.

Training to be a primary school teacher

After a degree (except a BEd or BA/BSc with QTS), you must achieve Qualified Teacher Status to teach in state schools. A Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE), which takes one year full time, is a common option for graduates, although there are employment-based routes available.

Tax-free training bursaries and ’golden hellos’ are on offer.

Salaries for primary school teachers

Starting salaries are £20,133 (inner London £24,168). Experienced teachers earn £34,281 (£41,004 in inner London).

Allowances are paid to teachers considered excellent or who take on extra work.

Professional bodies

• National Union of Teachers
• National Association of Schoolmasters and Union of Women Teachers
• Training and Development Agency for Schools

Related jobs

• Secondary school teacher
• Special educational needs (SEN) teacher