English Graduate

Role overview

An opportunity is available for an English graduate to join a secondary school in Stevenage as part of a salaried Schools Direct route. The position is designed for someone looking to begin a teaching career while earning and learning at the same time, with direct employment from the first day.

The role is full-time, permanent, and term-time only, with a September 2026 start. The successful candidate will work within the English department and support learning across Key Stages 3 and 4, with a strong emphasis on improving attainment and the overall quality of student learning.

Programme details

This route offers a salaried training pathway for aspiring teachers. It includes pay on the Unqualified Teacher scale, most commonly at UQ1, and provides a structured introduction to teaching through a Schools Direct programme.

• Paid position on the Unqualified Teacher scale, typically UQ1
• Employment directly with the school from day one
• Initial teaching commitment of around 15 periods per week
• Teaching load rising gradually to about 20 periods per week
• One dedicated training day each week
• Chance to work toward QTS with PGCE, with an optional opt-out if needed
• Based in one school throughout the programme, helping avoid conflicting teaching approaches and reducing stress

Day-to-day focus

You will support English teaching across KS3 and KS4, deliver GCSE and A Level intervention work, and contribute to raising academic outcomes. The role is suited to someone who is enthusiastic about moving into teaching and wants meaningful classroom experience before progressing to formal teacher training.

Candidate profile

The school is seeking a graduate with a strong academic background in English or a closely related subject from a respected university. Applicants should also have solid A Levels and GCSEs, confidence in their understanding of GCSE and A Level English, and the ability to engage, motivate, and inspire students.

Preferred degree background

• English Literature
• English Language
• English Language and Literature
• English Studies
• Creative Writing
• English and Creative Writing
• English Literature and Creative Writing
• English Language and Linguistics
• Linguistics
• Applied Linguistics
• TESOL / English Language Teaching
• English Education
• Education Studies and English
• English and Drama
• English Literature and Drama
• English and Theatre Studies
• English and Film Studies
• English and Media
• English and Journalism
• Journalism / Media and Communications

School environment

The school is described as a rapidly improving, Good-rated setting with strong leadership and clear progress. It promotes the values of knowledge, aspiration, and respect, with high expectations for both staff and students. Behaviour and routines are a priority, and the school has seen significant improvement in conduct, safety, and classroom culture.

The trust is committed to staff development, teaching quality, and investment in subject expertise. The curriculum is knowledge-rich and designed to prepare students for university, apprenticeships, and future careers. The school also offers a close-knit community feel alongside the resources and opportunities of a larger organisation. Car parking is available.

Salary and start date

Pay is dependent on experience and skill level, with a range from £24,066 to £36,718. The role begins in September 2026.

Application note

Interviews may be arranged immediately for suitable candidates.