January Hiring Trends: Where to Find Long-Term Teaching Opportunities

Posted about 1 month ago

As the new year begins, January brings a fresh wave of opportunities for teachers across the UK. Schools and education providers are gearing up for the rest of the academic year, making it a prime time for educators seeking long-term positions. Whether you?re an experienced teacher looking for stability or a newly qualified teacher (NQT) eager to kick-start your career, knowing where and how to search can make all the difference.

Here are the top hiring trends and tips for finding long-term teaching opportunities this January

1. January: A Peak Hiring Period

Schools often address staffing needs in January to cover gaps left at the end of the autumn term or to prepare for new enrolments and changes in staffing. Recruitment agencies, like Class People, see a surge in demand for both permanent and long-term supply teachers at this time.

Why January?

Budget Reviews: Schools finalise budgets for the spring term, enabling them to confirm hiring decisions.
Mid-Year Starters: Schools value January hires for continuity through the rest of the academic year.
Resignation Deadlines: The December resignation deadline creates openings, particularly for key roles.
If you?re ready to start your search, act quickly to take advantage of this busy hiring window.

2. Regions with High Demand

The demand for teachers varies across the UK, with some regions experiencing higher shortages than others. According to recent trends:

South West England: Cheltenham and Gloucester consistently show strong demand for teachers, with Bristol also emerging as a key area.
Urban Hubs: Cities like Oxford and Birmingham often have vacancies due to larger student populations and high staff turnover.
Rural Schools: While often overlooked, rural schools in areas like Devon and Wiltshire are actively seeking committed educators, particularly for long-term roles.

Being open to relocating or commuting can significantly expand your options.

3. Top Roles in Demand

Certain roles are more sought-after in January, offering excellent opportunities for long-term employment. These include:

Primary Teachers: Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2 teachers are in high demand to ensure continuity in core subject delivery.
SEND Specialists: With a growing focus on inclusive education, schools are prioritising candidates with experience in special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).
Secondary Subject Teachers: Maths, Science, and English teachers remain top priorities in secondary schools.

If you specialise in these areas, now is the perfect time to highlight your skills and experience.

4. Using Recruitment Agencies to Your Advantage

Partnering with a recruitment agency is one of the most effective ways to secure a long-term teaching position. Agencies have established relationships with schools and often have access to unadvertised vacancies.

Benefits of using an agency like Class People:

Expert guidance on CVs and applications.
Insider knowledge of school requirements.
Opportunities tailored to your career goals.
5. Building a Stand-Out Application

Competition can be fierce, so it?s essential to make your application shine. Here are a few tips:

Tailor Your CV: Highlight relevant experience and skills for the role you?re applying for.
Showcase Flexibility: Schools value teachers who can adapt to their needs, so emphasise your willingness to take on challenges.
Stay Updated: Ensure your qualifications, training, and DBS checks are current.

6. What to Expect from Long-Term Roles

Long-term teaching roles offer stability and the chance to build meaningful relationships with students and colleagues. Unlike day-to-day supply work, these positions often come with additional responsibilities such as planning and marking, providing opportunities for professional development.

Ready to Find Your Next Role?

January is the perfect time to make your move. Whether you?re looking for a role in bustling urban centres or a close-knit rural community, the demand for dedicated teachers is high.

Class People can help you navigate this exciting period and secure a long-term teaching role that aligns with your goals. Get in touch today and take the first step towards a fulfilling new chapter in your teaching career.

For Teachers

Whether you are seeking a long-term career appointment, flexible teaching supply work or early years work, supply teaching recruitment agency Class People's consultants are on hand to find just the role you are looking for.

For Schools

By teaming up with Class People, you’ll have direct access to the very best Early Years and Nursery Practitioners, Primary and Secondary teachers, SEN professionals, Teaching Assistants and tutors, supply teachers and non-educational staff.