9th October 2025

Cultural surprises when teaching in the UK

If you’re planning to relocate to the UK to teach, we’ve put together a quick guide of helpful tips. From decoding the lingo to the structure of a UK school, make sure you read up on what to expect on your first day!

PE in all weather

Throughout the UK, PE carries on whatever the weather! Drizzle, snow, or a chill wind won’t stop a lesson. Outdoor programming carries on regardless, so pack a raincoat and be ready to get involved!

Decoding terminology

The UK has its own educational vocabulary. For example:

• Revision = studying
• Form tutor = homeroom teacher with pastoral duties
• Supply Teacher = covering someone else’s class 
• Inset day = staff training day, no pupils in sight.

It takes a bit of adjusting, but you’ll pick it up quickly.

Uniforms and dress codes

Pupils wear uniforms from primary right through to secondary. It’s part of the culture and gives schools a strong identity. As a teacher, dressing smartly is the way to go. Aim for business-style outfits rather than casual ones. Swap the hoodie and trainers for a blazer and polished shoes, and you’ll look the part!

Early years and Reception

If you hear “Reception”, don’t head to the front office; it’s the UK’s equivalent of Kindergarten. It’s where the youngest learners begin their school journey.

Marking and assessment

Marking is serious business. Feedback is detailed, and regular checks are in place to make sure work is up to standard and students are keeping up to date with their studies. As a supply teacher, you’ll be expected to mark work too, so keep that red pen handy.

Expectations

British schools come with their own rhythm:

• Boundaries – professional lines are strict
• Time – if you’re not early, you’re late. Punctuality is everything.
• Respect – not automatic, it’s earned in the classroom.
• Behaviour – anti-bullying policies are usually robust and enforced.

Assemblies and house systems

Regular assemblies bring the whole school together, sometimes for announcements, stories and even for a sing-along.

Many schools also run house systems. Pupils earn house points for good work or behaviour, which builds school spirit and a bit of healthy competition! 

School dinners

This one confuses nearly everyone at first. “School dinners” actually means lunch. Yes, lunch. Don’t expect roast beef at 7pm; in the UK, dinner is served at lunchtime in the school cafeteria.

Religious Education (RE)

RE is a core subject. Pupils study a range of religions and worldviews. It’s a compulsory subject in the UK. 

Teaching in the UK comes with plenty of cultural changes, but that’s what makes the experience so rewarding. Embrace the rain, sharpen your marking skills and enjoy the quirks of British school life. You’ll come away with stories that you’ll never forget.

Teaching in the UK comes with plenty of cultural changes, but that’s what makes the experience so rewarding. Embrace the rain, sharpen your marking skills and enjoy the quirks of British school life. You’ll come away with stories that you’ll never forget.

If you’re ready to start your UK teaching adventure, register with us today and let’s get you started!