Primary education teaching professionals Salary
Median salary £42,031 per year (2025). Based on ONS ASHE data.
Gross pay, before deductions. See take-home pay on £42,000 after tax and National Insurance →
For primary education teaching professionals, £45,939 is the typical (median) pay. That is above the UK full-time median of £39,039 — +18% versus the national average. Experienced primary education teaching professionals (top 25%) earn over £49,898.
About this role
Primary education teaching professionals plan, deliver and assess teaching to students, developing subject knowledge, skills and capabilities. They create learning environments, track student progress and contribute to curriculum development and departmental activities.
Key responsibilities
- Planning and delivering lessons, lectures or seminars
- Assessing student work and providing constructive feedback
- Developing curriculum content and learning materials
- Supporting student welfare and pastoral care
- Engaging in continuing professional development and, in higher education, research
Qualifications and entry routes
School teaching requires a degree plus QTS (Qualified Teacher Status) via PGCE or equivalent. Higher education typically requires a PhD and research track record. FE teaching requires a Level 5 teaching qualification.
Career outlook
Ongoing recruitment challenges, particularly in STEM subjects, languages and special educational needs. Retention is a significant sector concern.
Key skills
Common industries
- Primary education
- Secondary education
- Further education
- Higher education
- Special educational needs
Data coverage
Salary Range (2025)
Estimated Career Progression
Based on salary percentile distribution for this occupation
Entry Level
£19,713
0-2 years
Mid Level
£30,407
3-7 years
Senior
£49,898
8-15 years
Leadership
£57,904
15+ years
Potential career growth: ▲ +194% from entry to leadership
Salary Trend (2021-2025)
Gender Pay Comparison (2025)
Gender pay gap: 12.2%
Full-time vs All Employees (2025)
Full-time premium: +£3,908
Primary education teaching professionals salary: common questions
How much do primary education teaching professionals earn in the UK?
Is £45,939 a good salary in the UK?
What is the starting salary for primary education teaching professionals?
How much do the highest-paid primary education teaching professionals earn?
Have primary education teaching professionals salaries kept up with inflation?
Is there a gender pay gap for primary education teaching professionals?
Figures: ONS Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings, gross annual pay. UK full-time median £39,039 (2025).