Careers in Education: There’s More Than Teaching

A growing employment sector 

Education is one of the UK’s largest employment sectors, employing well over 2 million people across schools, colleges, universities and other learning providers. As the population grows and the demand for specialist support increases, employers continue to recruit staff with a wide range of skills. 

Many roles also offer good opportunities for career progression, flexible working and professional development. 

More than the classroom 

There are many careers that support learning without leading lessons. 

Teaching Assistants (TAs) work alongside teachers, helping pupils individually or in small groups. Many specialise in supporting children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). 

Learning Mentors and Pastoral Support Workers help students overcome barriers to learning, improve attendance and support their wellbeing. 

Learning Resources Staff who support literacy and study skills in the school. 

Schools also rely on professionals working behind the scenes, including: 

• School Business Managers 

• Finance Officers 

• Human Resources staff 

• Marketing and Communications Officers 

• Technicians 

• Examinations Officers 

• Administrators 

• Site and Facilities Managers 

These roles are essential to the smooth running of every school. 

Specialist careers 

For those interested in psychology, health or additional needs, education offers specialist careers including: 

• Educational Psychologist 

• Speech and Language Therapist 

• Occupational Therapist 

• School Counsellor 

• Careers Adviser 

• Family Support Worker 

• School Nurse 

Some of these careers require a university degree followed by postgraduate or professional training, while others can be accessed through apprenticeships or vocational qualifications. 

Routes into education careers 

There isn’t just one pathway into education. 

Young people can choose from: 

• Apprenticeships in business administration, IT, facilities management and learning support. 

• College courses such as T Levels and vocational qualifications – for example the T level in Education and Early Years.  

• University degrees for specialist and professional careers. 

• Entry-level support roles that provide valuable experience and opportunities to progress. 

Volunteering with youth organisations, sports clubs or community groups can also help develop communication, teamwork and leadership skills that employers value. 

Salary guide 

Salaries vary depending on experience and location, but typical starting salaries include: 

• Teaching Assistant: £19,000–£25,000 

• School Administrator: £22,000–£30,000 

• IT Technician: £25,000–£35,000 

• School Business Manager: £35,000–£60,000+ 

• Careers Adviser: £27,000–£40,000 

• Educational Psychologist: £50,000+ after qualification 

Many roles also offer generous pension schemes and excellent holiday entitlement. 

Career Spotlight: Educational Psychologist 

Educational Psychologists work with children and young people experiencing learning, emotional or behavioural challenges. They assess needs, advise schools and families, and help develop strategies that enable children to thrive. 

This career requires a psychology degree followed by postgraduate training, but it offers the opportunity to make a lasting difference to young people’s lives.