Salary prospects for teachers

This article has been written in partnership with AGCAS.

Early career teachers (ECTs) in state-maintained schools in England usually start their careers on the minimum rate of the main pay range. Progression within the scale will be determined by schools.

• Find out more from our advice on getting a teaching job in Northern Ireland
• Find out more from our advice on getting a teaching job in Scotland
• Find out more from our advice on getting a teaching job in Wales .

What is the pay scale for teachers?

An early career teacher (ECT) in England earns a minimum of £25,714 a year (or £32,157 if you work in inner London). These figures are revised annually.

Main pay ranges, including ECTs:

• London fringe: £26,948 to £38,174
• Outer London: £29,915 to £41,136
• Inner London: £32,157 to £42,624
• Rest of England: £25,714 to £36,961

Additional payments can be awarded for taking on additional responsibility. At all schools, there is flexibility to reward teachers based on their performance. Progression to the upper pay scale is available to all teachers.

Your starting salary should be stated in your written confirmation of appointment.

If you are working in the FE sector you can expect to earn £19,758 to £23,997 as an unqualified FE teacher or £24,702 to £37,258 as a qualified FE teacher. For more information, see the UCU salary scales.

Pay and conditions for early years teachers are set by employers. Starting salaries for early years teachers range from around £18,000 to £24,000.

Can you negotiate your starting pay?

Salary negotiation is possible depending on your subject, age range and the location of the school. However, most new teachers will start their teaching careers on the minimum for a qualified teacher.

This article was last updated August 2021.