Ways to apply for a teaching job as a newly qualified teacher (NQT)

 Pool applications:

The pool system allows you to apply to a local education authority (LEA) rather than to individual schools and this is common for jobs at primary level. You send one application form and the LEA circulates it to local schools on your behalf. Some LEA’s follow up references and complete police checks before passing on application to schools with vacancies. Others do this after interviews with candidates. Most LEA’s advertise pool arrangements in December/January and try to find places for successful applicants later in the year. Pool applications should be made early in the spring term.

 Speculative applications

If you are interested I working for a specific LEA then it’s worth sending in a speculative application as some LEA’s will keep them on file and consider your application as and when suitable vacancies arise. Your details may be held on a database and passed on to heads teachers.

 Direct to schools

You ca apply direct to schools in response to the adverts in the local or national press. In this case it is important to follow the application instructions in the advert.