Teaching Salary in Northern Ireland
Northern Ireland has a distinct labour market with salaries generally below the UK median but the lowest housing costs in the UK. Belfast is the primary employment hub, with strengths in technology, financial services (particularly fintech) and the public sector.
The UK's lowest housing costs in most areas. Belfast salaries in technology and financial services can be competitive when adjusted for cost of living.
Salary Trajectory
| Stage | Yrs Exp | P25 | Median | P75 | P90 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Newly Qualified Teacher (M1) | 0+ | £29,400 | £31,017 | £32,340 | £37,991 |
| Main Scale Teacher (M6) | 5+ | £37,240 | £40,506 | £42,140 | £48,102 |
| Upper Pay Scale (UPS3) / TLR | 8+ | £42,401 | £46,882 | £50,960 | £53,900 |
| Head of Department | 10+ | £47,040 | £52,914 | £56,840 | £60,760 |
| Assistant / Deputy Head | 14+ | £53,900 | £65,112 | £76,440 | £88,200 |
| Head Teacher | 18+ | £73,500 | £89,061 | £107,800 | £128,380 |
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Based on ONS Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings (ASHE) via NOMIS. Regional salary adjustments derived from ONS regional pay differentials. Career progression timelines based on industry research. All figures are gross annual pay estimates for full-time workers.