Teachers of English as a foreign language Salary
Salary data from ONS ASHE. Some figures may be unavailable due to small sample sizes.
For teachers of english as a foreign language, £37,514 is the typical (median) pay. That is around the UK full-time median of £39,039 — -4.0% versus the national average.
About this role
Teachers of English as a foreign language 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 Trend (2021-2025)
Teachers of English as a foreign language salary: common questions
How much do teachers of english as a foreign language earn in the UK?
Is £37,514 a good salary in the UK?
Have teachers of english as a foreign language salaries kept up with inflation?
Figures: ONS Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings, gross annual pay. UK full-time median £39,039 (2025).