What are the different types of schools in the UK? A complete guide

Teaching in the UK  gives you access to a wide range of school types, some will be similar to those in your home country, but others may be run differently. Understanding these will help you choose the right environment for your teaching career. This guide focuses on schools in England, where our overseas teachers are placed.

State-Funded vs Independent Schools: What’s the Difference?

In England, schools fall into two main categories:

• State-funded schools, free to attend and funded by the government

• Independent schools, fee-paying and privately run

Most overseas teachers begin their UK career in the state-funded sector.

Local Authority Schools: a structured environment

Local authority schools in England are run by the council, which employs staff and manages admissions. Overseas teachers working in these schools follow the National Curriculum and enjoy a structured teaching environment. Local authority schools make up over 50% of all schools in England, making them a common choice for international teachers seeking UK teaching roles.

Academies: how are they different?

Academies are publicly funded but independently run, often by academy trusts. They have more freedom over curriculum design, budgets, and school hours, which allows for a more flexible and innovative teaching environment. Around 80% of secondary schools in England are academies. Many overseas teachers find academies dynamic and fast-paced, offering excellent opportunities for professional growth.

Faith schools: do you need to share the school’s religion?

These can be state-funded (voluntary-aided or controlled) or independent. They follow the National Curriculum but have additional flexibility in the teaching of subjects such as Religious Studies. Teachers do not usually need to share the school’s religion to work there. Faith schools must offer at least 50% of their places without considering religion, providing opportunities for international teachers to join a supportive and structured school community.

Grammar schools: how selective are they?

Grammar schools are selective state schools that admit students based on academic performance at age 11. They have a strong academic focus and may resemble high-performing schools overseas. There are only 163 grammar schools in England, with most located in Kent, Buckinghamshire, and Lincolnshire. Grammar schools offer overseas teachers a highly structured environment with motivated students.

Independent and Public Schools: are they the same?

Independent schools are fee-paying institutions, also called private schools, that have freedom over curriculum and teaching methods. Public schools are a type of elite independent school, often historic and prestigious, and sometimes offering boarding. Teaching in these schools can be competitive but offers high resources, smaller class sizes, and professional prestige. Overseas teachers usually require significant UK teaching experience to secure these roles.

Prep Schools: what do they teach?

Prep schools are private, fee-paying schools for children aged 4–13. They prepare students for entry into secondary education, usually independent or grammar schools. Prep schools typically focus on academic achievement, with smaller classes and specialist teachers, offering overseas teachers a structured and supportive environment to develop their skills.

Thinking about teaching in a Special School? 

These schools serve pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). These can be state-funded or independent. Overseas teachers with experience in inclusive education or behaviour support are in high demand, and these roles offer rewarding career opportunities in the UK. 

Found which school type suits you best? Apply to teach in the UK and register with us today, and find a school that suits your teaching style.