Moving to a private school

[41notTrendy]

Am considering a post in a local private school. What are the main differences? And if it doesn't work out will I be forever shunned from state schools?

[manicinsomniac]

Main differences in my experience:
Much longer hours physically on the premises
Far less paperwork
More freedom to teach what you want to
Smaller classes therefore less marking
Fewer behavioural issues but also weaker procedures for dealing with problems that do arise
A bigger emphasis on sport
Loads of curriculum time missed for 'one offs' and house competitions etc
Saturday school
Zero budget policy for books/resources
Beautiful grounds
Better facilities
Lots of cover for absent colleagues
Fewer TAs and those there are aren't used effectively anyway
Do your own displays
Relaxed rules eg drinking alcohol during parents evening encouraged!
A slight 'not living in the real world' aura
Quirkiness and lots of 'Only at X__'

And I'm not sure about forever shunned from state schools but I think it would put you at a disadvantage at least

However, having worked in both sectors, I don't think I'd willingly go back to the state sector

[41notTrendy]

Thanks manic, that's really helpful. I do really fancy the job, and I think the change would be exciting. Just don't want to be stuck there if it doesn't work out (assuming I get it ).

[Dramajustfollowsme]

I totally agree with everything already said. I spent a lot of time when I first started at a private school in disbelief as to what was happening.
Some things that you would never get away with in a politically correct state school are just seen as the *** way.
A lot less paper trail just for the sake of it.
As a primary teacher, I have to write extensive reports to parents each term (4 times a year) instead of once at any state school I've worked in. Never have much to say in the first one as I've only known the kids a few weeks.

[41notTrendy]

I've put my application in! Will see if I get an interview, I've no idea how many are likely to apply and how I'll measure up. Not afraid of a challenge, I'm hoping the benefits balance that out, in the way they have in other jobs I've had.

[Knowsabitabouteducation]

To add to the list:

if it's a small school, there won't be a massive support staff (and shouldn't if finances are sound) and teaching staff will be expected to chip in to do what is needed.

More duties

No supply teachers for cover, but not a lot of staff absence.

[Astelia]

You get more variety in a small private school as everyone has to muck in. I have vacuumed, edited the school magazine, made tea for visitors, even done flower arrangements. I now work in a huge school and don't have those sorts of opportunities so actually life is a little more dull.

[PotteringAlong]

Also worth considering though that Gove wants people teaching at private schools completely out of the teachers pension scheme. Check whether it means new people only or whether your pension will be frozen