Qualified outside Scotland – and want to teach in Scotland?
Scotland is an amazing place to develop your teaching career. The good news is that there are opportunities for teachers within the Scottish education system.
Our national Curriculum for Excellence is specifically designed to give teachers the flexibility they need to create engaging lessons for their pupils. So you’ll be able to bring your own personal experiences into the classroom, for the benefit of your pupils.
"I’m originally from Dublin, but moved to Scotland to work in a primary school four years ago. At St David’s I work in a promoted post as a Development Officer. I’m a member of the management team and I’m also developing play-based learning. I would encourage anyone to teach here – there’s so many great opportunities."Aoife Lambert – Primary Teacher at St David's RC Primary School
Life in Scotland
Scotland is also a diverse and welcoming country. And whether you settle in one of our dynamic cities, a small rural community, or you’re unable to resist the temptation of teaching on one of our beautiful islands, it’s easy to feel at home here.
Steps towards teaching in Scotland
If your teaching qualification is from outside Scotland, you may still be able to register to teach in Scotland. However, it’s important to make sure that you have the right qualifications and the correct visa.
Register with the GTCS
Before you can teach in a Scottish state school, you must be registered with the General Teaching Council for Scotland (GTCS). The GTCS is responsible for ensuring that each teacher’s qualifications meet the required standard.
You can apply online to register with GTCS. The total cost of registering with GTC Scotland as a teacher will be either £189 or £148 depending on the level of PVG check you are required to complete.
Apply for a UK visa
To teach in Scotland, you must be eligible to work in the UK. This often means applying for a visa. You can get more information on the types of visa available, and how you can apply here.
The Home Office usually grants visas within three to six weeks. Costs may vary.
Apply for teaching jobs
Once you have a visa and are registered with the GTC Scotland, you’re able to apply for teaching jobs anywhere in Scotland. Search here for teaching jobs.
Come to Scotland
We can’t wait to welcome you!
For more detailed information on these steps, please register for your FREE guide to teaching in Scotland.
Salaries for teachers in Scotland
Your salary will depend on your experience, so it will vary from case to case.
Classroom teachers then move up the salary scale for every year they’ve been teaching. Promoted teachers will earn more. And salaries in the independent sector vary from place to place.
Discover how other teachers made their own moves to Scotland
Watch Aoife Lambert from Ireland
Watch Cara Collins from Canada
"I’m from Rockhampton, Queensland in Australia. I came to the UK in 1996 playing cricket and went on a whirlwind road trip to Scotland. The big mountains and peaceful scenery convinced me to move over."Paul Hoffmann – English Teacher at Trinity High School and Duncanrig High School
