The start of a new year is a natural moment to pause, reflect, and think about what comes next. For many teachers and education professionals, January marks the beginning of a new job search, a career change, or a desire for better balance, flexibility, or progression.
If you’re considering your next move in education for 2026, it’s important to understand the wide range of settings, roles, and opportunities available, and how to choose the right fit for you.
At Chalk Education, we work closely with schools and education professionals across the UK, helping match the right people with the right roles through a supportive, tailored recruitment approach.
The Education Settings You Could Work In
Education is not one-size-fits-all. Each setting offers a different pace, structure, and experience. Here’s an overview of the key settings Chalk Education recruits for:
Primary Schools
Ideal for those who enjoy building strong relationships with pupils and supporting learning across a broad curriculum in a nurturing environment.
Secondary Schools
Best suited to subject specialists who thrive in fast-paced settings and enjoy teaching older students with increasing independence.
SEN Schools
Focused on supporting pupils with additional needs. These roles suit professionals with patience, adaptability, and a passion for inclusive education.
Alternative Provision
Designed for pupils who need a more tailored approach to learning. These settings often suit educators who enjoy creative teaching methods and smaller groups.
Pupil Referral Units (PRUs)
Support students who cannot attend mainstream education. Roles here require resilience, strong behaviour management, and relationship-building skills.
Early Years Settings
Perfect for those passionate about early development, play-based learning, and creating strong foundations in education.
FE & Post-16
Work with older learners focusing on qualifications, vocational routes, and preparing students for employment or further study.
The Roles Available Through Chalk Education
We recruit for a wide range of roles across education, supporting both short-term cover and long-term placements:
- Teachers (EYFS, Primary, Secondary, SEN)
- Teaching Assistants & Learning Support Assistants (LSAs)
- Cover Supervisors
- SEND Specialists
- Pastoral & Support Roles (mentors, behaviour support, inclusion staff)
Whether you’re newly qualified, experienced, or returning to education, there are opportunities to suit every stage of your career.
How to Choose the Right Setting for You
When considering your next role, it helps to reflect on:
- Your strengths – Do you enjoy subject-led teaching, pastoral support, or one-to-one work?
- Your personality – Do you prefer structured environments or more flexible, alternative settings?
- Your career goals – Are you seeking progression, stability, or flexibility?
- Your work-life balance – Would supply, long-term, or permanent work suit you best?
The right role isn’t just about qualifications, it’s about finding a setting where you can thrive, feel supported, and make a meaningful impact.
How Chalk Education Supports Your Career in 2026
As a trusted education recruitment agency in the UK, Chalk Education takes a people-first approach to recruitment. We support candidates with:
- Access to a wide range of education settings
- Flexible opportunities including supply, long-term, and permanent roles
- Careful matching based on skills, experience, and preferences
- Ongoing support and communication
- Opportunities for progression and consistency
For schools, this approach ensures they are matched with professionals who align with their values, culture, and pupils’ needs.
Top Tips for Starting a New Teaching Role in the New Year
- Refresh your CV – Highlight recent experience, training, and key strengths.
- Be open to different settings – You may discover a role you hadn’t previously considered.
- Consider flexibility – Supply or long-term roles can offer valuable experience and balance.
- Ask questions – Understand the expectations, support, and progression opportunities available.
- Partner with the right agency – A supportive agency opens doors to better-matched roles.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is January a good time to look for teaching jobs?
Yes. January is a peak time for recruitment, with many schools planning ahead for the year and covering new vacancies.
2. Can I work flexibly in education?
Absolutely. Many professionals choose supply or long-term roles to fit around lifestyle or career goals.
3. Do I need experience in SEN to work in SEN schools?
Experience is helpful but not always essential. Many roles offer training and on-the-job support.
4. What roles does Chalk Education recruit for?
We recruit teachers, teaching assistants, LSAs, cover supervisors, SEND specialists, and pastoral staff across a range of education settings.
5. How does Chalk Education match candidates to roles?
We take time to understand your experience, preferences, and goals to ensure placements are the right fit.
In Summary
A new year brings new possibilities, and 2026 could be the perfect time to explore a teaching role that truly suits you. With a wide range of settings and opportunities available, the right support can make all the difference.
At Chalk Education, we’re proud to guide education professionals through their next steps with clarity, care, and confidence.
Ready to Explore Your Options for 2026?
Whether you’re a teacher, support professional, or school looking for the right match, we’re here to help.
Visit chalkeducation.com to register your interest or speak with our team today.