FT Private vs. PT state

[Needmorewine]

If you had the choice would you opt to work FT in a private school or PT in a state primary ? The private school is part of the GDST if anyone knows what they’re like to work for ? From what I can see it’s longer holidays and better pay. I recall being told classes are c.24/25 so not a huge amount smaller than state . 50% fee remission for staff children as well which is very tempting . Or would you rather hold out for a part time job in a state school ? Any input much appreciated !

I work in a gdst school and it’s totally lovely. I’m sure they’re all different, but the one I work in is amazing, really supportive and friendly. Realistic goals, nurturing, fun place to work. A big change from my previous jobs in various state schools. I’m properly enjoying teaching again.

I posted last month about the same thing! I ended not accepting either job as I didn't like the feel of either! I wanted to love the private school but tnought the extra curricular demands were too much. So I'm still looking!

Thank you both for replying . I’ve applied for both today so will see what happens . Would be a nice dilemma to have 😂 I must admit the idea of FT even in private scares me a bit as not sure how I would juggle it all - have a 6 YO and 1 YO so PT may be more feasible .... but if I’m being clever and forward planning the 50% discount off fees would come in v v useful in future ! Argh ! Jobs don’t seem to come up very often at private schools round this way either , think once you’re in there most people tend to stay !

Goid luck! Let us know how you get on!

Good luck, not goid luck!

I worked in a GDST school for years. It was sooo lovely compared with any of the many other schools I've worked in (mostly state, a couple of independent). I would absolutely rather work ft there than pt anywhere else. Unfortunately I now live nowhere near any schools like it. Good luck with the application, OP.

Thank you robert and lazy I really hope I get an interview now !!!

The 50% off fees is only useful if you’re planning on working there for the next 17 years...

Check if the private school will pay into the teachers pension scheme.

I work for GDST. It's really good having the backing of that organisation behind the school. The gdst pays for big ticket items ( the schools have to put in bids) like new roof, new buildings, renovations, etc. They also oversee the school so the head has to report to the CEO of the GDST. It also provides really good and free training - I will have been on four training sess this year. It can buy in computer stuff, etc while leaving each school as an autonomy. As a staff member you have access to their HR and the school to the legal dept (when parents don't pay fees). It's like the LEA used to be for state. I moved from state and the thing you need to watch with private is numbers on role because that is where the revenue comes from. If you pm me then I may be able to give you more info.

The girls are lovely (at least they are in my gaff). Parents....it's a private school and there is a difference. If you get an interview, this is something they will look for - how are you going to communicate with parents. Also expectation is for marketing events, a couple of Saturdays, open evenings, etc. They do want their pound of flesh but you don't get the behavioual issues.

Gdst have committed, at the mo, to the teacher's pension. The rise up to 23% of employer contributions will force many smaller private school out of tps or even to close. Do think about that especially for small prep schools.