Your UK Checklist for Moving Overseas as an Educator

Dreaming to teach in the UK? If you’re an educator in Canada, New Zealand, or Australia, you’re not alone. Thousands of teachers make the move every year, drawn by the chance to travel, gain international teaching experience, and explore Europe during school holidays.

At Prospero Teaching International, we’ve been helping teachers relocate for over 25 years, so we know what it takes to make your transition smooth, stress-free, and successful. Here’s your ultimate UK checklist to ensure you’re prepared and to show you how we’ll be by your side every step of the way.

Understand the UK Visa Requirements

Before booking your one-way ticket, it’s important to understand which visa you’ll need.

• Skilled Worker Visa – For qualified teachers with a job offer from a licensed UK school or employer.

• Youth Mobility Scheme Visa (YMS) – A popular choice for educators aged 18–35 from Canada, New Zealand, or Australia. This allows you to live and work in the UK for up to 2 years (and from 2024, Australians and New Zealanders can extend to 3 years).

• Ancestry Visa – Available if you have a UK-born grandparent, allowing you to work in the UK for 5 years.

Tip: Visa rules change, so it’s essential to get the latest advice. At Prospero Teaching International, our team will guide you through the visa process and connect you with trusted immigration specialists.

Secure Your Teaching Role in Advance

While you can move to the UK and look for work after arriving, securing a teaching role before you leave offers huge benefits:

• Peace of mind knowing your income is sorted.

• Schools are more likely to help with relocation support.

• You can start arranging housing in advance.

We have strong connections with schools across England and Wales, meaning we can place you in a role that suits your teaching style, location preference, and career goals. Whether you’re looking for long-term positions or supply teaching to keep your schedule flexible, we’ll match you with the right opportunity

Sort Your Documents Early

To work as a teacher in the UK, you’ll need:

• A valid passport with at least 6 months’ validity.

• Your teaching qualification (BEd, PGCE, DipEd, etc.).

• A Police Check from your home country.

• References from previous schools or employers.

• An International Child Protection Certificate (ICPC) – we can help you apply for this.

The earlier you get these documents ready, the faster we can move you through the hiring process.

Plan Your Accommodation & Finances

Moving to another country is exciting, but planning where you’ll live and how you’ll manage money is key:

• Short-term housing – Many educators start in short-term rentals or house shares before committing to a longer lease.

• Budget for UK living costs – London is the most expensive city, but salaries reflect this. Other cities like Manchester, Cardiff, and Birmingham offer lower rent and great travel links.

• Set up a UK bank account – We’ll guide you through this process once you arrive.

How Prospero Teaching International Supports You

With over 25 years in the education recruitment sector, we’ve built strong relationships with UK schools and understand what overseas teachers need to succeed.

When you register with us, you get:

• Tailored job matching to suit your experience and preferences.

• Competitive pay rates and advice on UK salary expectations.

• Ongoing support even after you’ve started teaching.

• Access to our network of other overseas educators — so you’ll never feel alone.

We’ve helped hundreds of teachers from Canada, New Zealand, and Australia make the move successfully  and you could be next.

Start Your UK Teaching Journey Today

The UK is waiting for you – from vibrant London classrooms to coastal towns and historic cities, your teaching skills are in demand. With our decades of experience, industry knowledge, and friendly support, Prospero Teaching International will make your move exciting, not stressful.

👉 Register Now and take the first step toward your UK teaching adventure.