Teacher - Primary School

Inspire the next generation as you help children take the first steps on their educational journey.

About the job

Salary (before tax)

Entry

Experienced

£33,594

£50,589

Entry

£33,594

Experienced

£50,589

In this job, new workers in Scotland start around £33,594 per year. Experienced workers can earn up to £50,589.

Source:

EIS

A day in the life – Primary school teacher

What it's like

Primary school teachers use their broad knowledge to help children learn and develop. Every day is different – you might put pupils through their paces in the gym hall one day, then test their times tables the next.

A great primary school teacher is often one of a child’s first and most influential role models. You’ll plan and deliver lessons across different areas of learning. This includes languages, maths and sciences – but you’ll turn your hand to almost every educational topic!

Your main responsibility is to improve your pupils’ knowledge and understanding. Your lessons will follow the Scottish Government’s Curriculum for Excellence (CfE). Although, you might have a different curriculum if you work in an independent school.

Primary school teachers encourage children to express themselves. With your guidance, young people will feel confident and prepared so they can thrive at secondary school.

Are you someone who enjoys helping others, and is passionate about education? Then you’ll make a fantastic primary school teacher!

Your tasks might include:

creating lessons and teaching materials that you can deliver to your pupils
considering additional support needs in lesson plans and adjusting the learning environment as needed
discussing children's development and progress with parents and carers
helping pupils apply learning to different subjects so they can see how it fits into the wider world
organising and supervising outings, clubs, social activities and sports events
working with other professionals, such as education psychologists and social workers

Hours

You’ll work Monday to Friday.
Classes will usually start at 9AM and finish at 3PM or 4PM.
You’ll likely work outside your normal hours to plan lessons, mark work and take part in parents’ evenings.
Teachers normally work 39 weeks per year, split over three school terms.

Environment

As a primary school teacher, you’ll usually have your own classroom. Although, you may teach in other parts of the school to cover staff shortages.
You’ll organise your classroom and create displays to foster a positive learning environment.