Are you a Nigerian teacher looking for a job in the UK? With the UK schools facing a teacher shortage, international educators are in high demand.
This guide will walk you through the step-by-step process of securing a UK teaching job, covering teaching qualifications, job search strategies, visa requirements, and relocation tips.
1. UK Teaching Requirements
Before applying, ensure you meet the basic UK teaching job requirements for Nigerian teachers.
Key Requirements:
- A bachelor’s degree in education or a related subject.
- Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) (required for most teaching roles).
- Teaching experience (at least one year preferred).
- English language proficiency (IELTS or PTE may be required).
- A criminal record check (DBS equivalent) from Nigeria.
High-Demand Subjects
UK schools urgently need teachers in:
- Mathematics
- Physics
- Computer Science
- Special Educational Needs (SEN)
- Modern Foreign Languages (French, Spanish, etc.)
If you teach any of these subjects, you increase your chances of sponsorship for a UK Skilled Worker Visa.
2. Choose the best route for you
There are multiple ways for Nigerian teachers to qualify for teaching jobs in the UK.
Apply for QTS
Good news! Nigerian teachers can now apply for QTS online via the UK Department for Education (DfE) portal.
If you meet the requirements, you can teach in England without extra training.
Take a PGCE course in UK
If you don’t qualify for QTS, enrolling in a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) in the UK can help you meet the standards.
- BEST UK PGCE COURSES FOR INTERNATIONAL TEACHERS
Alternative teaching routes
Assessment-Only QTS (for experienced teachers without formal UK training).
Teach First Programme (for new teachers looking to train on the job).
3. Prepare your documents
To apply for UK teaching jobs from Nigeria, have the following ready:
- Degree and teaching certificates (certified copies).
- Proof of teaching experience (employment letters, references).
- English test results (IELTS/PTE) if required.
- Criminal record check from Nigeria (needed for visa applications).
4. Search for teaching jobs in UK
Now that you’re qualified, it’s time to find UK teaching jobs that sponsor visas.
Best Job Boards for UK Teaching Jobs:
- TES Jobs (Largest UK education job portal).
- GOV.UK Teaching Vacancies.
- Academy Trust & Local Authority Websites.
- Applying for Sponsored Jobs
Since Nigerian teachers need a work visa, look for “visa sponsorship available” in job descriptions. Many UK schools are already registered sponsors.
- LIST OF UK SCHOOLS OFFERING VISA SPONSORSHIP
5. Apply for a UK Skilled Worker Visa
Once you secure a job, you need a UK Skilled Worker Visa for teachers.
Visa Requirements:
- Job offer with Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS).
- Minimum salary requirement (£30,000+ for most teachers).
- Tuberculosis test results.
- Visa application fee + NHS health surcharge.
Visa processing takes 3–8 weeks. Plan ahead to avoid delays!
- HOW TO APPLY FOR UK TEACHING VISA
6. Prepare for job interviews
Most UK schools conduct virtual interviews for international teachers.
Be ready for questions like:
- “Why do you want to teach in the UK?”
- “How do you handle classroom behavior?”
- “Tell us about your teaching strategies for diverse learners.”
Interview Tips: Research the school before your interview. Highlight your Nigerian teaching experience as an asset. Show familiarity with the UK curriculum and assessment methods.
- UK TEACHING INTERVIEW QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS
7. Relocate and settle in UK
Once your visa is approved, it’s time to move!
Key Relocation Steps:
Find accommodation – Use sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom.
Understand UK school culture – Expect differences in classroom management and curriculum structure.
Join a Nigerian teacher community – Connect via Facebook groups or UK-based Nigerian teacher networks.
- BEST PLACES FOR NIGERIAN TEACHERS TO LIVE IN THE UK
Conclusion
Getting a UK teaching job as a Nigerian teacher requires the right qualifications, a strong job application, and visa sponsorship.
You can secure a well-paying job and build a rewarding career in the UK with proper planning.
So.
Start applying for QTS or PGCE programs. Search for UK teaching jobs that offer sponsorship. Get your documents and visa application ready.
Need more help?
- TOP UK SCHOOLS HIRING NIGERIAN TEACHERS
GOOD LUCK.
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