Private vs state school

[Anvesha07]

Hi everyone,

Like many others, I find teaching challenging, but I haven’t been able to secure anything outside the profession yet. I’m trying to understand whether state schools are similar to independent schools when it comes to inflexibility, long working hours, expectations to run after‑school clubs, weekly parent contact as a tutor, lower pension, and frequent cover duties.

I’m also wondering about salary differences. Is pay in the state sector generally lower than in the private sector? I’m the sole earner and currently not full‑time, so I’m taking on additional jobs just to make ends meet.

For context, I teach in a sixth form.

It sounds like you're currently in the private sector. I am too, and recognise everything you say. I don't think it would be any easier in the state sector, except possibly with regards to the lower pension. Non-contact time is (or should be) better protected in the state sector, and the pay is more transparent - you should just be able to look at teacher pay scales. Good luck!