Teacher pay scales are based on factors like experience, qualified teacher status and regional differences, making it essential to know where you fit.
Whether you’re a new teacher or an experienced educator considering a move, this guide will help you navigate the landscape of teacher salaries, from the unqualified teacher pay scale through the Main Pay Scale (MPS) to the Upper Pay Scale (UPS), as well as how pay progression works.
What are the teacher pay scales?
The teacher pay scales in England are organised into distinct pay ranges:
- Unqualified Teacher Pay Scale: This is for teachers who do not currently hold qualified teacher status.
- Main Pay Scale (MPS): This is where newly-qualified and less experienced teachers typically start their careers. It includes six pay points, with teachers moving through the points as they gain experience.
- Upper Pay Scale (UPS): Designed for more experienced teachers, the UPS has three levels. Transitioning to this scale requires a formal application.
- Leadership Pay Scale: This is for school headteachers and other senior leaders.
Pay scales also differ based on region. For example, teachers in inner London earn more than their counterparts in the rest of the country due to the higher cost of living. These differences are meant to compensate for the varying living costs across different regions.
Current Teacher pay scales 2024/2025
Each year the Pay scales are reviewed and confirmed by the Department for Education. Local authority-maintained schools must follow these pay scales but academies and free schools are allowed to set their own.
Teacher pay scales 2024/2025
Teacher Pay Scales – England Excluding London
Teacher Pay Scale – Fringe Area
Teacher Pay Scale – Outer London Area
Teacher Pay Scales – Inner London Area
School leaders pay scales 2024/2025
School Leaders Pay Scale – England Excluding London
School Leaders Pay Scale – Fringe Area
School Leaders Pay Scale – Outer London Area
School Leaders Pay Scale – Inner London Area
Illustrations courtesy of Schools Week, view a text version here
Predictions and speculations on Teachers pay scales
Ministers are under pressure to ensure future pay adjustments follow inflation and make teaching more financially competitive with other professions. Changes in recruitment and retention challenges may also influence future pay rises.
For the previous year’s teacher pay scale details, see 22/23 Teacher Pay scales.
Finding your place on the teacher pay scale
When determining your starting point on the pay scale, several factors are considered, such as your experience, qualifications, and the specific needs of the school. Newly-qualified teachers generally start at the M1 point, while experienced teachers or those with additional responsibilities may start higher. Schools may also offer flexibility for candidates with unique expertise or relevant industry experience.
The role of pay progression in teaching
Previous to 2024, progression for teachers was based on performance appraisals, typically held annually. These appraisals assess your contribution to the school, including student progress and classroom effectiveness. However, currently the government has committed to removing the “bureaucratic requirement” of performance-related pay in schools by September 2024. Read the full article on Schools Week and subscribe for more updates.
Additional pay and allowances
Besides the standard pay scales, many teachers are eligible for additional allowances:
- Teaching and Learning Responsibility (TLR) Payments: These are extra payments for teachers who take on additional responsibilities, such as leading a department or overseeing a subject. TLR payments differ, depending on the level of responsibility.
- Special Educational Needs (SEN) Allowances: Teachers who support students with special educational needs may also receive allowances.
These allowances aim to recognise the extra efforts required in certain roles and help retain talent in more challenging teaching environments.
Key takeaways for job seekers
Teacher pay in England is structured to reward experience, regional demands, and additional responsibilities. From understanding the difference between the Main Pay Scale and Upper Pay Scale to recognising the opportunities for pay progression and additional allowances, it is essential for teachers at all stages of their careers to be well-informed about their earning potential.