Primary Teacher Contracted Hours: Understanding the Basics

If you`re considering a career in primary education, it`s important to have a clear understanding of the contracted hours that come with this profession. For many teachers, the hours and workload can be a source of confusion and frustration, particularly for new entrants to the field.

In this article, we`ll go over the basics of primary teacher contracted hours, including what they are, how they differ from other teaching roles, and what to expect as you progress in your career.

What are Primary Teacher Contracted Hours?

Put simply, your contracted hours as a primary teacher refer to the number of hours you are expected to work each week. These hours include any time spent on site, as well as any additional hours you may need to spend planning lessons, marking work, or attending meetings.

Your contracted hours will vary depending on a number of factors, including your experience, the type of school you work in, and the region you`re based in. Typically, newly qualified teachers can expect to work around 35-40 hours per week, while more experienced teachers may have slightly shorter hours.

It`s important to note that contracted hours are different from working hours. While your contracted hours may be 35 hours per week, for example, you may end up working closer to 50 hours a week due to additional responsibilities, parent-teacher meetings, and other commitments.

How Are Primary Teacher Contracted Hours Different from Other Teaching Roles?

While the basics of contracted hours are similar across all teaching roles, there are some key differences between primary and secondary education in terms of workload and expectations. Primary teachers, for example, are often responsible for teaching a wide range of subjects, from maths and English to art and music. This means that they must be skilled in a variety of areas, and able to adapt quickly to changing teaching requirements.

Primary teachers are also expected to spend a significant amount of time on administrative tasks, such as lesson planning, marking work and preparing reports. This can add significantly to their workload, even beyond their contracted hours.

However, primary teachers may have more flexibility in terms of how they manage their time, as they often work closely with a small group of students and have more control over their class schedules.

What to Expect as You Progress in Your Career

As you gain experience and progress in your career as a primary teacher, your contracted hours may change. You may have opportunities to take on additional responsibilities, such as mentoring new teachers or overseeing a particular subject area. This can be a rewarding way to develop your skills and contribute to the wider school community, but it may also mean taking on additional duties and working longer hours.

Ultimately, your contracted hours as a primary teacher will depend on a range of factors, including your experience, the school you work in, and the region you`re based in. However, by understanding the basics of contracted hours and preparing for the workload that comes with teaching, you can set yourself up for a successful and rewarding career in primary education.