Overseas-trained teachers

What you need to know

We value the contribution overseas-trained teachers make to our schools. However, you will need to apply for a teaching position in an Enfield school using the same process as UK citizens. Please read the sections below for more information. If you still have further questions, you can contact us directly.

Work Permits and Leave to Remain

Once you have gained employment with us, your school will apply on your behalf for a work permit, should you need one. These are not transferable and will allow you to work only in the school that has employed you. If the school is unsure of what to do, please ask them to contact their staffing officer at the Civic Centre.

You will also need to apply for 'Leave to Remain' at the same time as you apply for your work permit. There is likely to be an application fee for this of at least £335. You can find more information about the Leave to Remain at www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk.

If you are qualified from any other country, contact the London North Consortium via their website www.lonoco.co.uk. Please note that you must already be employed in a school as a teacher before contacting the London North Consortium. Alternatively you can contact the Overseas Trained Teacher information line on 01245 454321.

Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)

You will need to obtain Qualified Teacher Status in order to continue to work in the UK. We encourage all our OTTs to gain QTS and offer support for this in conjunction with the London North Consortium of Universities. This support is given is free of charge if you obtain your QTS on the first attempt.

If you are a qualified teacher from a country in the European Economic Area (EEA), you should to apply to the General Teaching Council for England GTC(E) for QTS. To request a application form please ring the GTC(E) on 0870 001 0308.

If you are qualified from any other country, contact the London North Consortium: www.lonoco.co.uk, telephone 020 8411 4343. Please note that you must already be employed in a school as a teacher before contacting the London North Consortium. Alternatively you can contact the Overseas Trained Teacher information line on 01245 454321.

The Curriculum and British Schools

The Department of Education and Skills maintains a website, www.teachernet.gov.uk, that can provide you with a wealth of information about the British Schools system and the National Curriculum, along with useful contacts for advice.