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Five things educators can do now to get ready for September

Date posted : 21 July 2026

Summer has only just started, and September might seem a long way off, but it will be here sooner than you think. Schools and trusts are already planning for September, with new opportunities opening across the country. 

In July, staffing plans settle, long‑term roles open, and educators begin securing positions for the new academic year. Preparing at the start of the school summer holidays gives you more choice and time to consider the type of school and job you’re looking for. Early preparation means you can choose the right role rather than rushing into one. 

Here are five steps teachers and support staff can take now to get ready for September.

1. Update your availability and preferences

Schools begin confirming September staffing in early summer. When your availability, commute radius, preferred key stages, and working pattern are up-to-date, you appear in searches for roles that match your experience.

If you have not reviewed your profile recently, summer is a good time to check that everything reflects your plans for the new term. Clear information helps Teaching Personnel to match you with roles that suit your strengths.

Even small updates, like adjusting your commute radius, on the MyTP Work App can unlock new matches.

2. Update your CV and recent training

An up-to-date CV helps schools understand your recent experience and training. Adding safeguarding refreshers, curriculum updates, or Continuing Professional Development (CPD) you've completed this academic year shows schools you're ready for September. 

Educators who keep their CVs up to date often secure interviews earlier. If your CV has not been updated since your last job, reviewing it now can make shortlisting faster. 

Including measurable outcomes such as progress data, intervention results, or pupil feedback helps your CV stand out.

3. Stay open to different settings and job opportunities


September brings opportunities across Early Years, primary, secondary, and SEND settings. Permanent roles, long‑term placements, part‑time timetables, intervention posts, pastoral support, and classroom‑based support roles all become available nationwide.

NFER data shows that support staff now make up more than half of the school workforce, and demand continues to grow. For example, teaching assistant (TA) roles continue to grow in importance as schools support more pupils with a wider range of learning needs. In fact, teaching assistants for 2026/27 are in high demand

Early Years specialists: If you work in Early Years, you can explore nursery practitioner roles, EYFS classroom support, and early childhood education jobs on our website

SEND specialists: The number of pupils with special educational needs (SEN) has increased over the last five years. With recent SEND reforms, there are plenty of opportunities for SEND-trained educators. If you’re interested in moving into this area, CPD and training can help you. 

Mainstream and flexible: If you're considering a change this September, alternatives within education can offer greater balance and satisfaction. If you want a working pattern that fits your schedule, you can explore flexible placements and job-share opportunities. Demand for these roles continues to grow, and schools are starting to take note.  According to the official Department for Education Working Lives of Teachers and Leaders Survey, just over half of teachers and leaders had some form of flexible working arrangement in place in 2025 (51%), higher than in previous years.  

Supply teaching roles also offer flexible options and a chance to build confidence and skills.

4. Act early to access stronger opportunities

Schools continue to confirm staffing gaps throughout July. Acting early gives you time to visit schools, compare offers, and secure a teaching position that fits your working style.

Educators who apply early often secure roles that match their strengths because they reach hiring managers before competition increases later in the season. Early preparation also reduces pressure during the final weeks of August.

5. Use our support to secure your September role

We work with schools, multi‑academy trusts, and specialist settings across the country. Our team of specialist education consultants, some of whom are former teachers themselves, understands exactly what you need from a classroom role 

Our consultants help educators prepare early by reviewing CVs, highlighting strengths, arranging and prepping for interviews, and sharing roles before they’re advertised. Start exploring September opportunities today.

Get ahead now

Updating your profile, refreshing your CV, staying open to different role types, and acting ahead of the summer break help you secure a role that fits your goals. We are here to support you through each stage, from the first conversation to the first day.

If you want support with your next step, you can update your profile using the myTP Work App or speak with a consultant.

Frequently asked questions

1. When should I start looking for September teaching jobs?

Schools begin confirming staffing needs in early summer, so starting now increases your chances of finding your ideal job in education. 

2. Do I need to update my CV before applying for September roles?

A current CV helps schools understand your recent practice and training. It’s beneficial to take some time to ensure it is up-to-date with all recent skills, achievements and training.

3. Are long‑term roles available nationwide for September?

Yes. Long‑term roles open across Early Years, primary, secondary, and SEND settings throughout the summer. 

4. Can Teaching Personnel help me secure a role before the new term?

Our consultants support educators with CV guidance, interview preparation, and access to teaching and support jobs that are not advertised publicly. You can also take advantage of our free CPD training.

5. Should I stay open to different role types for September?

Flexibility increases your chances of securing a role early because schools recruit across many positions.















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