Many Nigerian teachers are considering relocating to the UK for better career opportunities and financial stability.
However, one of the biggest concerns is how much Nigerian teachers earn in UK schools and what factors influence their salaries.
This guide provides a detailed salary breakdown for Nigerian teachers in UK, from starting salaries to regional variations, allowances and career progression.
What is the Starting Salary for Nigerian Teachers in the UK?
The starting salary for teachers in the UK depends on whether you have Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) and where you work.
As of September 2024, the minimum starting salaries for qualified teachers (with QTS) are:
- England (excluding London): £31,650 per year.
- London Fringe: £32,700 per year.
- Outer London: £35,500 per year.
- Inner London: £38,766 per year.
Unqualified teachers (those without QTS) earn lower salaries:
- England (excluding London): £20,598 per year.
- London Fringe: £21,933 per year.
- Outer London: £24,415 per year.
- Inner London: £25,831 per year.
How to Earn More as a Nigerian Teacher in the UK
To increase your salary, ensure you:
✔ Obtain QTS to access higher salary scales.
✔ Work in London, where salaries are higher due to the cost of living.
✔ Gain experience, as salaries increase with teaching years.
Salary Progression for Teachers in the UK
Teachers in the UK move up the Main Pay Range (MPS) and later into the Upper Pay Range (UPS), based on experience and performance.
Teachers progress through these levels based on performance evaluations and additional responsibilities.
3. Additional Pay and Allowances for Teachers
In addition to base salaries, teachers may receive extra payments for specific roles.
Such payment is called “Teaching and Learning Responsibility (TLR) payments“
For teachers taking on additional leadership duties:
- TLR1: £9,272 – £15,690 per year.
- TLR2: £3,214 – £7,847 per year.
- TLR3: £639 – £3,169 per year.
Special Educational Needs (SEN) Allowance
For teachers working with students with special needs:
- SEN Allowance: £2,384 – £4,703 per year.
These allowances increase your total salary and depend on the school and responsibilities.
How Location Affects Teacher Salaries in the UK
Salaries vary based on where you work due to differences in the cost of living.
- Inner London: Highest salaries (£38,766 starting).
- Outer London: Slightly lower than Inner London (£35,500 starting).
- London Fringe: Moderate salaries (£32,700 starting).
- Rest of England: Standard pay (£31,650 starting).
Tip: If you want higher pay, consider working in London but also factor in the higher cost of living there.
Impact of QTS on Salary for Nigerian Teachers
Many Nigerian teachers arrive in the UK without QTS and are initially classified as unqualified teachers, leading to lower salaries.
To earn higher salaries, you must:
✔ Obtain QTS through assessment-based routes like iQTS or CONVERT YOUR TRCN TO QTS.
✔ Apply for international recognition if you already have a teaching qualification.
✔ Ensure your employer supports your QTS application.
Without QTS, your earnings are lower and your career progression is limited.
Additional Benefits for Teachers in the UK
Aside from salary, teachers in the UK enjoy benefits such as:
✅ Pension Contributions – Teachers join the Teachers’ Pension Scheme, ensuring long-term financial security.
✅ Paid Holidays – Teachers get up to 13 weeks of paid holidays per year.
✅ Professional Development – Schools provide training and promotion opportunities.
✅ Relocation Assistance – Some UK schools offer relocation support for international teachers.
These non-monetary benefits improve the overall teaching experience and financial stability.
So How Much Nigerian Teachers Really Earn in UK Schools?
- Qualified teachers (QTS) earn £31,650 – £38,766+ per year, depending on their location.
- Unqualified teachers earn £20,598 – £25,831 per year.
- Salaries increase with experience, location and extra responsibilities.
- London schools pay higher salaries but have a higher cost of living.
- Extra allowances (SEN, TLR payments) can increase earnings.
- Teachers enjoy benefits like pensions, paid holidays, and training opportunities.
If you’re a Nigerian teacher planning to work in the UK, obtaining QTS and choosing the right location will help maximize your earnings.
Ready to Start Your Teaching Career in the UK?
GOOD LUCK.
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