Is It Too Late to Find a Teaching Job for September?

If you’re a teacher, teaching assistant, school administrator, or support staff member wondering whether you’ve “missed the boat” for September roles — you’re not alone.

Every June, thousands of education professionals across the UK start reassessing where they are in their career. Some realise their current role no longer feels right. Others are looking for progression, a healthier school culture, a shorter commute, or simply a fresh start for the new academic year.

And the good news?

No — it is absolutely not too late to find a teaching job for September.

At Aston Education, we continue supporting schools, academies, and multi-academy trusts with permanent and long-term recruitment throughout June, July, and even into August.

Why Schools Are Still Recruiting in June

Many candidates assume all September vacancies are filled by Easter. In reality, recruitment in education continues much later than people think.

Schools are often still hiring in June because:

• Teachers resign later in the year

• Internal promotions create unexpected vacancies

• Budgets and staffing structures change

• Growing pupil numbers increase staffing needs

• Schools want stronger candidates and reopen searches

• MATs and academies are expanding teams

• Support staff recruitment often peaks closer to summer

This means there are still excellent opportunities available for:

• Teachers across primary and secondary

• ECTs

• Middle leaders

• Senior leaders

• Teaching assistants

• SEN support staff

• HR, IT, finance, facilities, and admin professionals

The Market Is Still Active

One of the biggest misconceptions candidates have is:

“If schools haven’t hired by now, the good jobs are gone.”

That simply isn’t true.

In fact, some of the strongest opportunities appear later in the cycle because schools become more flexible, focused, and motivated to secure the right person before September.

Schools are increasingly prioritising:

• Long-term fit

• Positive attitude and adaptability

• Strong communication skills

• Commitment to pupils and school culture

• Candidates who genuinely want to contribute

For support staff roles, especially, recruitment can move quickly during June and July.

What Candidates Should Do Right Now

If you’re considering a move, this is the ideal time to take action.

1. Update Your CV

Make sure your CV reflects:

• Recent responsibilities and achievements

• Impact on pupil outcomes or school operations

• Leadership responsibilities

• Interventions or projects you’ve led

• Relevant safeguarding and CPD training

Avoid generic descriptions. Schools want to quickly understand the difference you make.

2. Stay Open-Minded

Some candidates focus only on one exact role or school type.

But June is often when unexpected opportunities appear:

• Progression roles

• Newly created positions

• Flexible contracts

• Schools with improved leadership

• Growing academies and trusts

The right opportunity may not look exactly how you imagined it initially.

3. Prepare for Faster Hiring Timelines

At this stage of the year, schools often move quickly.

You may find:

• Shorter application windows

• Faster interview turnaround

• Quicker decision-making

Being prepared can make a huge difference.

4. Get Support

Searching for a new role while still working full-time in education can feel overwhelming.

That’s why having the right recruitment partner matters.

At Aston Education, we support candidates with:

• CV guidance

• Application support

• Interview preparation

• Career advice

• Salary guidance

• Market insights

We work with education professionals at every stage of their career journey.

What If You’re Feeling Unsure?

Many education professionals hesitate because they worry:

• “What if I leave too late?”

• “What if there’s nothing suitable?”

• “What if schools think I should have applied earlier?”

The reality is that schools understand the timing pressures of the academic year.

A thoughtful move made in June can often be better than rushing into the wrong role earlier in the year.

If your current position no longer feels right, it’s worth exploring what else is available before settling for another year unhappy or unfulfilled.

September Opportunities Are Still Out There

Every year, schools continue recruiting right through the summer term and beyond.

So if you’re considering a move, progression opportunity, or fresh start in education, don’t assume it’s too late.

Some of the best career decisions happen when candidates take action now.

Looking for a New Education Role?

Explore live education vacancies with Aston Education

Or get in touch with our team for confidential career support and guidance on your next move in education.