Probationers
Information for Probationary Teachers
The independent education sector in Scotland offers newly qualified, probationary teachers a rewarding and challenging experience in a high quality teaching environment. The sector employs 3,500 teachers and educates over 32,000 children in nursery, primary and secondary schools - both mainstream and special needs. Induction training in the independent sector is fully recognised and will lead to full registration with the General Teaching Council for Scotland (GTCS), provided that you meet the required Standard. If you apply and are accepted to undertake your induction training year in an independent school, you should inform the GTCS.
Applying for probationary posts
In your final year as a student teacher, you may apply for teaching posts in the independent sector as a probationary teacher. If invited for interview, you will have an opportunity to meet staff and look around the school and its facilities. Prior to interview, references and a report will be sought from the institution where you completed your teacher training.
You can browse the current vacancies on our Jobs page and look at each school's profile on our Find a school page. You may also wish to contact schools direct to enquire whether positions are available.
Support and CPD
When newly qualified, you will be provisionally registered with the GTCS which will monitor the arrangements made for you during your induction year. Your school will allocate a member of staff to be your induction tutor and appropriate support and guidance will be given by the school, the GTCS and SCIS. Support for Continuing Professional Development is available at all SCIS schools. Further information and advice is available from David Clark at SCIS.
Pay and conditions for probationary teachers
Pay and conditions of service for probationary teachers are agreed with the school. Most independent schools pay newly qualified teachers according to the national pay scales and some may offer a contract of employment rather than a fixed term placement. Many independent schools participate in the Scottish Teachers' Superannuation Scheme.