Teaching is a rewarding career to pursue, and London is a particularly great city to be a teacher in. With its diversity, strong education system and wide range of schools, it offers opportunities for both newly qualified and experienced educators. Here are some key things to know about the different areas where you can find teaching jobs in London, along with a bit more insight into what makes each area unique.
So you’ve decided to take the leap and start (or continue) your teaching career in London. It’s an incredibly rewarding path to take, placing you at the heart of one of the world’s most diverse and vibrant education systems. But as any educator knows, London is huge, and where you choose to work will shape your daily life just as much as what happens in the classroom. From the fast-paced energy of inner-city schools to the leafy, community-focused campuses in the suburbs, every corner of the capital offers a different rhythm.
Whether you’re a newly qualified teacher looking for a challenge, an experienced educator seeking a leadership role, or simply moving to the city for a fresh start, finding the right "fit" is key. Each area of London has its own personality, student demographic and unique advantages. Of course, once you’ve found the perfect school, you’ll need a comfortable, reliable place to recharge after a busy day of marking and lesson planning—and that’s where Crenns Properties comes in, providing high-quality, affordable homes that make the city feel like home for hardworking professionals.
There are 32 boroughs in London to choose from, each with their own distinct character, school environments and community feel. Many people find it helpful to think of the city as four main areas: East, West, North and South. Each area offers different teaching experiences, from fast-paced inner-city schools to quieter suburban settings.
Finding the right school is the first step, and we recommend chatting with Slingshot Education. They are specialists in London teaching recruitment who pride themselves on finding the perfect cultural and professional fit for educators across the city. They will help you find the ideal teaching role that fits the pupil age range you are looking for and is convenient for wherever you are living.
West London is a great location for primary school teachers, although there are also plenty of secondary schools available. The area includes a mix of suburban and more central boroughs, offering a range of school types and teaching environments.
One of the biggest advantages of West London is its excellent transport links, making commuting relatively easy. The area is also known for its well-resourced schools and strong community support. While some schools can be competitive to get into, they often provide excellent professional development opportunities and a high quality of teaching environment.
It’s the perfect balance for those who want a professional, well-resourced school environment without sacrificing that 'neighbourhood' feel. Check out our availability page to see what you can rent there.
Educational standards in this area are generally high, and there are many opportunities for teachers with experience who are looking to develop their careers further. North London is known for having more primary schools than secondary schools, making it a particularly good choice for those interested in early years or primary education.
The area is also home to a mix of affluent and diverse communities, which can provide a varied and enriching teaching experience. Schools here often place a strong emphasis on academic achievement, and there may be more competition for roles, especially in highly regarded schools.
East London is rich in cultural history and diversity, with notable boroughs such as Tower Hamlets, Barking and Hackney. This area has undergone significant regeneration in recent years, leading to improved facilities and growing school communities.
There are ample teaching opportunities here, especially for passionate and determined teachers. Due to a high number of primary and secondary schools, as well as a younger population, demand for teachers is often strong. Schools in East London can be fast-paced and challenging, but they also offer rewarding experiences and opportunities to make a real impact on students’ lives.
South London tends to have fewer schools compared to other parts of the city, but there are still good opportunities, particularly for secondary school teachers in districts such as Lewisham and Croydon. While it has fewer Tube stops, South London’s Overground and rail networks make it surprisingly easy to hop between trendy spots like Peckham and the quieter leafy suburbs. With the Overground from Shepherd's Bush you can easily travel below the river in a comfortable train.
This area is often appreciated for its greener spaces, scenic neighbourhoods and slightly slower pace of life compared to Central and Eastern areas. For teachers looking for a balance between city living and a more relaxed environment, South London can be an appealing option. Schools here can vary widely, offering both supportive environments for new teachers and opportunities for experienced educators to take on leadership roles.
Choosing where to teach in London depends on your personal preferences, teaching experience and career goals. Whether you prefer the vibrant energy of East London, the academic focus of the North, the balance of South London, or the accessibility of the West, there is something for every teacher in this dynamic city.
No matter which area you choose, teaching in London offers the chance to grow professionally while making a meaningful difference in a diverse and ever-evolving educational landscape.
Moving to London to teach is a big career move, but the logistics can feel like a lesson plan that never ends. To help you hit the ground running, speak to Slingshot Education for all the tips and advice, but in the meantime, here are the three essentials every London educator should have on their radar:
Understand the Pay Scales: London salaries are weighted to reflect the cost of living. Depending on the borough, you will fall into Inner London, Outer London or the Fringe. Inner London schools (like those in Hammersmith & Fulham or Kensington & Chelsea) offer the highest pay weighting, which can make a significant difference in your monthly take-home pay.
The "Golden Thread" of Support: If you’re an Early Career Teacher (ECT), London is arguably the best place to be. The city is a major hub for the Early Career Framework (ECF), offering world-class mentoring and professional development networks that you simply won't find elsewhere.
The "West London Corridor": Look for homes in areas like Shepherd’s Bush, Ladbroke Grove or East Acton. These spots are transport goldmines for teachers. You have the Central Line for a direct, fast shot into West End and East London schools, the Hammersmith & City line for easy access to Paddington and Marylebone and the Overground which connects you North-to-South in minutes. It means you aren't limited to one borough; you can easily commute to high-paying schools across Kensington, Hammersmith or even North London without spending your whole morning on a bus.
Top Tip: Before signing a contract, check if your school offers a Season Ticket Loan. Many London schools will lend you the upfront cost of an annual travel card, interest-free, to help you save on your daily commute.
At Crenns Properties, we know how important it is to have a comfortable, convenient base when you’re living or staying in London, especially if it’s your first time in the city. Settling into a new area is much easier when your home feels safe, welcoming and well looked after, and when you don’t have to spend hours commuting just to reach work, university or your favourite park. That’s why we focus on providing clean, well‑maintained rooms in friendly shared houses, with clear communication and responsive support so you’re never left chasing your landlord for answers.
Our homes are well placed for enjoying West London’s best parks and green spaces, as well as reliable transport links, shops and local amenities. From riverside walks and tree‑lined parks to local cafés, gyms and supermarkets, we choose locations that make everyday life simpler and more enjoyable, not just somewhere to sleep. Whether you’re in London for a gap year, a work placement, study or a longer‑term move, Crenns Properties aims to give you a relaxed, community‑minded place to live so you can focus on exploring the city and making the most of your time here.
Friendly and Approachable Landlords: We pride ourselves on being friendly and approachable. We're always available to answer your questions and provide assistance.
Well-Maintained Properties: Our properties are well-maintained and equipped with everything you need for a comfortable stay.
Convenient Locations: Our houses are located in convenient locations, with easy access to public transport and local amenities.
Flexible Tenancies: We offer flexible tenancy options to suit your needs.
Community Feel: We aim to create a community feel within our properties, making it easy for you to meet other young travellers.
Teaching in London is an incredible journey, offering a mix of professional growth and the chance to make a real impact in a world-class city. Whether you’re drawn to the vibrant energy of East London, the academic heritage of the North, or the well-connected, community-focused schools of the West, there is a classroom here that fits your goals. By choosing the right borough and understanding the local "secret sauce" of pay and transport, you can build a career that is as sustainable as it is rewarding.
With Crenns Properties as your trusted accommodation provider, you’ll have a comfortable and welcoming base in prime locations like Shepherd’s Bush, Ladbroke Grove, and East Acton. Our homes put you within easy reach of those high-paying Inner London boroughs while providing a peaceful retreat to recharge after a busy school day.
Ready to take the next step? Connect with Slingshot Education to find your perfect teaching placement, and visit our website at www.crenns.co.uk to discover our latest available rooms. We look forward to welcoming you to West London and helping you thrive in your new career.