Developing your workforce in shortage subjects: Time to look at international talent?

A persistent challenge faced by Norfolk school leaders is sourcing talented teachers in critical subjects such as mathematics, science, and MFL with rural and coastal schools, in particular, struggling to fill such posts, thereby placing additional pressure on existing teams and compromising continuity for learners. 

A more creative solution to securing the high-quality provision we strive for, would be to think beyond our own borders and consider employing international teaching talent.  

Benefits Beyond the Classroom 

International teachers don't just fill vacancies—they enrich school cultures. Bringing fresh perspectives, broadening pupils' world views, and contributing to a more diverse and dynamic learning environment for subjects like science and maths, where real-world global application is key: such diversity adds value. 

We don't have to look far to see the potential of international recruitment. The University of East Anglia (UEA) has targeted international ITT candidates to train on their PGCE, in our county's areas of greatest need—Physics, Maths, and MFL.   

Many come from high-performing education systems and bring a wealth of classroom experience and existing higher education qualifications. They meet stringent professional standards and are fully equipped to thrive in our schools. Their story—and their talent—speak for themselves. 

Recruitment and employment support 

To support schools to better understand the visa sponsorship process, EducationHR have produced a step-by-step guide to becoming a sponsor and recruiting talented individuals who need a visa to work in the UK. The guide is available on the NCC Schools site Recruiting international teachers guide.

To increase the diversity of applications to your ECT and/or teaching vacancies, EducationHR run an ECT Talent Pool and a Teacher Talent Pool. Current teacher trainees, including international teacher trainees, are being actively encouraged to apply to the ECT Talent pool so that you can access the best talent at the earliest opportunity. EducationHR work closely with the UEA and other ITT providers to promote the ECT talent pool and support ECTs with their employability skills. To request a candidate search of either the ECT or Teacher Talent pool please contact EducationHR at educationjobfinder@norfolk.gov.uk