Is a new role on your resolutions list?
As the year starts, it’s natural to think about change. A fresh start, maybe even a new job. In education, the calendar works a little differently. The hiring peaks aren’t in January, but rather in the build-up to September. Still, this quieter period is a solid time to plan your next move.
The new year is ideal for reviewing your career goals, updating your CV, and connecting with recruiters. Taking proactive steps now can make you stand out when most colleges start hiring for the next academic year.
Knowing the education hiring cycle
Most education jobs line up with the academic year, running from September to September. Budgets are finalised in the spring, and roles for September are usually advertised from February to May. You won’t see as many job ads in January as in some industries, but Colleges are making plans. Team leaders are thinking about staffing for the next year, retirements, promotions, and possible gaps. Being ready early is a real advantage.
Prepare yourself for new opportunities
Being proactive will give you more options later. This time of year lets you get things in order, so you’re ready to respond as soon as the right jobs appear.
Reflect on what you want
Pause and consider your career goals. Are you aiming for more responsibility? Want a role that’s focused on Special Educational Needs? Looking for a better work-life balance, or a different type of college? Be honest with yourself, knowing what you want makes your next steps a lot clearer.
Refresh your CV
Your CV should show your most recent skills and achievements. Update it carefully. Include clear examples, did you raise student performance, take on extra tasks, or lead a new initiative? Be specific when you can. You don’t want to be scrambling at the last minute. If your CV is ready now, you’ll be quicker to apply when a great job comes up.
Get in touch with a specialist recruiter
Connecting with an education recruitment agency early can help. Recruiters often hear about roles before they’re advertised, and colleges reach out to us for help planning their teams. Registering now allows us to get to know your background and what you’re looking for, so we can spot roles that match your experience and ambitions. We can also offer feedback on your application materials and let you know about upcoming trends.
Plan your job search
A smart search is better than sending out dozens of applications with no direction.
Find out about colleges that fit you
Make a shortlist of institutions where you’d like to work. Read their Ofsted reports, check their websites and social channels, and see if their values line up with yours. This will help you tailor your applications and show genuine interest in interviews.
Prepare, even before you apply
Prepare for interviews well before you’re invited to one. Practice responses to common questions and think of examples using the STAR technique (Situation, Task, Action, Result). Keeping up with important topics in education will also help, showing you’re engaged with the sector.
Take action now
Preparing early for a new education role really pays off. By getting your CV in order, reflecting on your aspirations, and contacting recruiters, you put yourself in a stronger position when vacancies open up.
If a career move in education is on your mind, don’t wait for the main rush to start. We’d like to help. Get in touch with our team for a confidential chat or upload your CV so we can match you to the right opportunities.
Call us at 0333 188 5555 or upload your CV here.
Let’s get you ready for the next step in your career!