The UK Teacher Pay Scales Explained (Updated for 2025)
One of the most common questions we hear from candidates is: “What will I actually earn as a teacher in the UK?”
Teacher pay is set nationally, but varies depending on location and career stage. Understanding the pay scales helps you know what to expect at interview and ensures you’re confident when discussing offers. Here’s a clear breakdown of the UK teacher pay scales for 2025–26, including the latest increases.
Teacher Pay Scales 2025–2026
From September 2025, teacher pay in England is as follows:
01 Main Pay Range (M1–M6)
- England (excluding London & Fringe): £32,916 – £45,352
- London Fringe: £34,398 – £46,890
- Outer London: £37,870 – £50,407
Inner London: £40,317 – £56,959
02 Upper Pay Range (U1–U3)
- England (excluding London & Fringe): £47,472 – £51,048
- London Fringe: £48,913 – £52,536
- Outer London: £52,219 – £56,131
- Inner London: £57,632 – £61,934
(Figures confirmed by NASUWT and DfE guidance for 2025–26)
03 Early Career Teacher (ECT) Salaries
If you’re starting as an ECT, your minimum salary depends on where you teach:
- England (excluding London & Fringe): £32,916
- London Fringe: £34,398
- Outer London: £37,870
- Inner London: £40,317
This makes Inner London the highest-paying location for new teachers, reflecting the higher cost of living
04 Additional Payments and Allowances
Alongside the base scales, teachers may receive:
- TLR Payments (Teaching and Learning Responsibility): For taking on extra responsibility, e.g. leading a subject or year group. Ranges from ~£3,500 to £17,200 depending on level.
- SEN Allowance: For working in Special Educational Needs settings, from ~£2,500 to £5,000.
- Recruitment & Retention Payments: Some schools offer additional incentives to attract teachers in shortage subjects.
What This Means for Your Career
- ECTs: You’ll earn at least £32,916 (more in London) from your first year.
- Experienced Teachers: As you move up the pay scale, salaries increase annually, subject to performance and appraisal.
- Career Growth: Moving into leadership roles (e.g. TLRs, Assistant Head, Deputy Head) opens up further pay opportunities.
Why Schools Care About Pay Transparency
When we speak with schools, many say they want to attract strong candidates but worry about being transparent on pay. Teachers who understand the scales can approach interviews more confidently, and schools value candidates who know their worth.
How Dunbar Education Supports Candidates
We don’t just share vacancies — we:
Explain where you should sit on the pay scale based on your experience
Negotiate with schools to ensure you’re placed fairly
Provide guidance on London allowances and additional payments
Help ECTs and experienced teachers alike navigate the system
Your Next Step
If you’re applying for teaching jobs, knowing the pay scales means you can apply with confidence. Whether you’re an ECT starting your career or an experienced teacher aiming for leadership, understanding your earning potential is essential.
📩 Ready to explore teaching jobs at your pay scale? Register with Dunbar Education today: https://dunbareducation.com/register
