Travel_abroadThe UK needs teachers. Maths, physics, computer science, chemistry, and special needs classrooms are running without enough staff. That shortage has opened doors for foreign-trained teachers—including Nigerians—to apply for UK teaching jobs with visa sponsorship.
If you’re a qualified teacher, you could move to Britain, earn a steady income in pounds, bring your family, and even get permanent residency after 5 years.
This guide gives you the roadmap: what you need, which visa to apply for, trusted schools hiring, salaries, and how to avoid costly mistakes.
Requirements for Nigerians and Foreign-Trained Teachers Applying for UK Teaching Jobs with Visa Sponsorship
Before you apply, make sure you meet the official requirements:
| Requirement | What It Means for Nigerian / Foreign Teachers |
|---|---|
| Education | A Bachelor of Education (B.Ed), PGDE, or subject-specific degree (e.g., B.Sc. Physics). Your WAEC/NECO results may be requested during credential verification. |
| Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) | You normally need QTS to teach in UK state schools. Nigerian teachers can now apply for QTS from abroad without retraining. Apply via the Teaching Regulation Agency (TRA). |
| TRCN Licence (Nigeria) | Not mandatory in the UK, but highly recommended—it proves you’re a registered teacher in Nigeria and strengthens your QTS and visa application. |
| Experience | At least 2 years of teaching is recommended. Teachers in shortage subjects (maths, physics, computer science, SEND) are in highest demand. |
| English Proficiency | If your qualification was taught in English, you may be exempt from IELTS. But many schools still ask for IELTS UKVI Academic (band 6.5+). |
| Background Check | Nigerian applicants must provide a Police Character Certificate; other foreign teachers need equivalent clearance. |
| Health Clearance | If applying from a TB-listed country (Nigeria included), you must take a tuberculosis test at a UK-approved clinic. |
| Job Offer + Sponsorship | You need a confirmed job offer from a UK school licensed as a Skilled Worker visa sponsor. They will issue your Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS). |
| Valid Passport | Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond intended stay. |
Full visa requirements: UK Skilled Worker visa.
The Visa for Teachers: UK Skilled Worker Visa (Education Route)
The Skilled Worker visa (Education route) is the official pathway for foreign teachers. Here’s why it matters:
- Lower salary threshold: £23,040 for shortage subject teachers (vs £26,200 standard).
- Lower application fees than the general Skilled Worker route.
- Dependents allowed (spouse and children).
- Pathway to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after 5 years.
Who qualifies?
Teachers in shortage subjects: maths, physics, chemistry, computer science, and SEND (special needs).
How to Apply for UK Teaching Jobs with Visa Sponsorship
Here’s your step-by-step roadmap:
- Check if You Qualify for QTS From Abroad
- Nigerian and foreign-trained teachers can apply directly via the TRA portal.
- Find a Licensed Employer
- Look at vacancies on Tes Jobs or DfE’s Teach in England portal.
- Confirm the school is on the UK Sponsor List.
- Secure a Job Offer
- Once hired, your school will issue a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS).
- Apply for the Skilled Worker Visa
- Online via gov.uk with your CoS.
- Submit Documents
- Passport, QTS certificate, TRCN (if available), IELTS UKVI (if required), police clearance, TB test results.
- Pay Fees & Book Biometrics
- Visa fee: £247 (up to 3 years).
- Wait for Decision
- Usually 3 weeks.
- Move to the UK & Begin Teaching
Top Employers & Recruitment Programs Sponsoring Teachers in the UK
| Employer / Program | Type of Roles | Visa Type | Where to Apply |
|---|---|---|---|
| DfE’s International Teacher Recruitment Programme (ITRP) | Overseas teachers in maths, physics, computer science | Skilled Worker visa | Teach in England |
| Ark Schools | Secondary teachers in shortage subjects | Skilled Worker visa | Ark Careers |
| United Learning | Teaching roles across UK | Skilled Worker visa | United Learning Careers |
| Tes Jobs | Nationwide teaching vacancies | Skilled Worker visa | Tes Jobs |
| UK Sponsor List | Register of all licensed schools | Skilled Worker visa | Gov.uk Sponsor List |
Salary and Benefits for Teachers in the UK
| Role | Average Salary (Outside London) | London Salary | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Newly Qualified Teacher | £28,000 | £34,500 | Higher pay in London due to cost of living |
| Experienced Teacher | £36,000 | £43,500 | Depends on Main/Upper Pay Scale |
| Shortage Subject Teacher (STEM/SEND) | £32,000+ | £39,000+ | Incentives available |
Extra Benefits:
- Pension contributions.
- Paid holidays.
- Relocation packages from some schools.
- Permanent residency (ILR) after 5 years.
For Nigerian and other foreign teachers: salaries paid in GBP often translate to significantly higher earnings compared to home-country wages.
Challenges for Foreign Teachers in the UK
- QTS recognition: You must apply and be approved before working in state schools.
- IELTS barrier: Even if you studied in English, some schools may still require test scores.
- Relocation costs: Visa, IELTS, medical, and flights can add up before your first paycheck.
- Adapting to curriculum: The UK curriculum and classroom culture may differ from your home country.
FAQs About UK Teaching Jobs with Visa Sponsorship
1. Can Nigerian teachers apply for UK teaching jobs?
Yes. Nigerian teachers with a B.Ed, PGDE, or subject degree plus TRCN registration are eligible, especially in shortage subjects.
2. Do I need TRCN to teach in the UK?
Not mandatory, but recommended—it proves you’re a licensed teacher and strengthens your QTS application.
3. Can I apply for QTS from Nigeria?
Yes. From 2023, teachers from Nigeria and several other countries can apply directly for QTS online without retraining.
4. Do I need IELTS if I studied in Nigeria?
Sometimes. If your degree was taught in English, you may be exempt, but many schools still require IELTS UKVI Academic.
5. Which subjects are in demand?
Maths, physics, chemistry, computer science, and SEND (special educational needs).
6. How much do UK teachers earn?
Between £28,000 and £43,500, depending on region and experience. London salaries are higher.
7. Can I bring my family?
Yes. Skilled Worker visa allows dependents to live, work, and study in the UK.
8. How long until I can get permanent residency?
After 5 years on the Skilled Worker visa, you can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).
Final Thoughts
The UK’s teacher shortage is real—and it’s your opportunity. With UK teaching jobs with visa sponsorship, foreign-trained teachers can move, earn in pounds, and secure a future in Britain.
Your next steps:
- Apply for QTS online through the Teaching Regulation Agency.
- Search vacancies on Tes Jobs or through the DfE’s recruitment programme.
- Confirm your employer is on the UK Sponsor List.
With demand at an all-time high, your UK classroom could be waiting for you in just a few months.
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