Recruitment is one of the biggest challenges facing schools today. With tight budgets and rising workloads, hiring the right teacher first time is essential — but easier said than done.
At Dunbar Education, we work with schools across the UK every day. We see where hiring goes right and where costly mistakes are made. Here’s how to get it right the first time.
1. Define What You Really Need
Too often, job adverts are written quickly or recycled from old templates. Schools that make strong hires take the time to:
- Identify the non-negotiables (e.g. subject expertise, safeguarding awareness)
- Decide what’s desirable but not essential
- Think about the kind of person who will fit the school culture
A clear brief at the start saves wasted time later
2. Write a Candidate-Friendly Job Advert
The best teachers are in demand. A generic advert won’t attract them. Instead:
- Be clear on pay and contract length
- Highlight your school’s strengths (Ofsted feedback, CPD opportunities, supportive environment)
- Avoid jargon and keep it easy to read
We regularly see higher application rates when adverts are written with candidates in mind.
3. Move Quickly
Schools often miss out on great teachers because the process drags on. The best candidates are usually off the market within two weeks.
Top tips:
- Shortlist within days, not weeks
- Keep candidates updated — silence is the fastest way to lose them
- Be ready to offer quickly after interview
4. Don’t Overlook Behaviour and Safeguarding
Subject knowledge matters, but schools that focus only on qualifications risk hiring someone who struggles with the essentials. Strong safeguarding awareness and behaviour management skills are what headteachers consistently tell us make the difference.
5. Involve the Right People in the Process
A successful hire isn’t just about the headteacher’s view. Involving department leads, mentors, and even support staff can give you a fuller picture of how a candidate will fit into the team.
6. Partner with a Specialist Recruitment Agency
Schools that work with a trusted education recruiter save time and reduce risk. At Dunbar Education, we:
- Pre-screen every candidate for safeguarding and compliance
- Match skills and personality to school culture
- Provide honest feedback so you can make confident decisions
- Offer both permanent and supply options to fit your staffing needs
The Cost of Getting It Wrong
Hiring the wrong teacher isn’t just about salary. It means:
- Disrupted learning for pupils
- Extra workload for staff covering gaps
- Restarting the recruitment process (and paying for it again)
- Impact on school morale and reputation
That’s why making the right hire first time is worth the investment.
How Dunbar Education Helps Schools Hire Right
We don’t believe in a “one-size-fits-all” approach. Our consultants take time to understand your school’s culture, priorities, and challenges. That means we only put forward candidates who are the right fit and not just a CV that ticks boxes.
Your Next Step
If your school is planning to hire, make sure you’re set up to get it right first time. Avoid the costly mistakes and secure a teacher who will make a long-term impact. 📩 Speak to Dunbar Education today about your staffing needs: https://dunbareducation.com/contact
