ADD ADVICE TO FAVPrimary school teacher
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
