International Guide
With the ongoing shortage of new teachers in England and rising demand in classrooms, international educators are more vital than ever. Teaching in the UK opens the door to exceptional personal and professional growth — all while becoming part of a globally respected education system known for its high standards and ambition.
Teaching in England as an International Educator
While most international teachers will eventually need to obtain Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) to continue teaching in England long-term, it’s important to know that you can begin teaching without it. Educators without QTS are classified as Overseas Trained Teachers (OTTs) and are typically paid the same salary as their QTS-qualified peers.
If you’re from a country where QTS isn’t immediately available, you’ll have up to four years from your start date in England to secure it.
Your eligibility for QTS depends on your home country’s teaching certification, which can vary significantly based on region, province, or state. That’s why we strongly recommend that all international teachers apply for QTS as soon as they are eligible — it’s a free process and currently takes around nine months to complete.
Adapting to Teaching in England
Moving into the English education system means adjusting to a new curriculum and teaching culture — but for most international teachers, the differences are subtle and manageable. With an open mind and a willingness to grow, adapting becomes a rewarding journey, not a challenge.
Teachers in England are held to high standards across all areas — from classroom delivery to planning, marking, and assessment. Behaviour in state schools can vary widely, so adaptability and resilience are essential.
To thrive, you’ll need to be well-organised, passionate about your subject, and confident in your classroom management skills. A strong, approachable personality helps build rapport with students and sets the tone for a successful, engaging learning environment.
Settling In: Finding Accommodation in England
Securing the right long-term accommodation is a key part of creating a comfortable, stable working environment as an international teacher. At OKASER, we offer guidance and support to help you navigate the process, but ultimately, it’s up to each teacher to view and secure their own property.
While the idea of arranging accommodation before you arrive may seem ideal, we strongly advise against signing a lease or paying a deposit until you’ve seen the property in person. This protects you from unexpected surprises and ensures you’re making a confident, informed decision.
🌍 What to Do Before Arrival:
Plan to book a short-term stay for your first few days — such as a budget-friendly hotel, B&B, or Airbnb — close to where you’ll be working. Platforms like Airbnb have made this step much easier in recent years. Just remember: you likely won’t have a car, so choose somewhere with good transport links to allow easy access to property viewings.
🏡 Searching for Long-Term Accommodation:
Once you’re settled, you can begin viewing potential long-term options. Shared accommodation is highly recommended, especially for solo travellers — it’s cost-effective and a great way to meet new people. Contracts typically start at six months, but many flexible options are available on websites like:
www.spareroom.co.uk – Ideal for house shares.
www.zoopla.co.uk – For renting entire properties.
💷 Budgeting Tips:
House share (incl. bills): £600–£800/month
House share in London: £700–£1000/month
Living alone: £800–£1400/month or more in London
These figures offer a realistic starting point, though cheaper options do become available, especially if you’re flexible and proactive in your search.
Have Questions About Moving to the UK
Our advisors are here to support you before, during and after your transition