Contracts

Negotiating terms and conditions

In terms of negotiating your contract, the usual rules apply. If you don’t ask, you (probably) won’t get.  You should make sure that what they are offering is made explicit and don’t assume that what they offer you is immutable.

Space to negotiate does depend on the school itself and the difficulties - or not - it has had in recruiting. But do take note:  if you are a physics specialist, the chronic shortage of physics teachers means you are likely to be in a strong bargaining position. If you are a female physics specialist, you may be in an even stronger position and if you are from a minority group, this may also strengthen your position.

But being able to demonstrate you can teach physics, particularly if you have taken a subject knowledge enhancement course, should stand you in good stead whatever your specialism and other highly desirable attributes.

• Pay
• Other conditions

An experienced physics teacher advises: “From experience with my colleagues – read your contract before signing it. If you don't like the terms and conditions, you need to raise these issues before you sign – it’s too late to complain afterwards!”