January can feel slow. The decorations are packed away, the new term has started, and the post-Christmas lull can be hard to shake. But if you are thinking about a new job or a career shift, this is a great moment to make your move.

Schools and education providers are preparing for the rest of the academic year, which makes now a strong window of opportunity for anyone seeking a new teaching role.

January is a key hiring period

Many schools look to fill staffing gaps in January, especially those created at the end of the autumn term or due to new enrolments. Recruitment agencies, including TLTP, often see a noticeable rise in demand for both permanent and long-term supply teachers during this period.

Why January works in your favour:

• Budget reviews: Schools confirm spring term budgets, which allows them to move forward with recruitment.
• Mid-year starters: January hires help maintain continuity for the rest of the academic year.
• Resignation deadlines: The October deadline often leads to new vacancies, including important roles. 

Fewer applicants
Competition can be lower in January compared with the larger September intake. This can work to your advantage, especially if you are looking for a permanent role.

Schools reassess staffing after the autumn term
Leaders often review budgets, class needs, staff performance and curriculum demands at the end of the year. Vacancies appear when schools identify gaps or secure additional funding.

Natural time for career resets
Some teachers choose to finish a term before making a fresh start in January or after the February half term. Schools plan for these handovers well in advance.

Opportunities continue through Easter
Easter is another key point where changes take place. Teachers complete fixed term contracts and schools expand year groups. This creates steady demand right through spring.

What schools prioritise in new year hires

Schools often focus on a few key qualities during January recruitment.

Strong behaviour management
Schools want teachers who can step in and support consistency midway through the academic year.

Adaptability
Being able to join a team and quickly understand routines is highly valued. Temporary roles can be a good way to demonstrate this.

Clear evidence of impact
Schools love to see examples of your classroom practice, progress data or strategies you have introduced.

Subject expertise or phase confidence
January is an important time for curriculum delivery. Clear strengths in a subject or year group can make you stand out.

How to prepare

Refresh your CV and highlight recent wins
Schools recruit quickly during this period, so your CV needs to show your recent achievements, training and responsibilities. Follow our CV guide to make sure yours stands out from the rest.

Be interview ready
Some interviews can be arranged with little notice in January. Prepare examples of behaviour strategies, differentiation, safeguarding awareness and key stage or subject knowledge. Our essential teacher interview guide has all the information you need to prepare.

Consider both permanent and temporary options
Temporary and long-term roles often lead to permanent opportunities. They are also a great way to try schools before committing.

Be clear on your availability
Schools want teachers who can start promptly or confirm a definite timeline. If you know your preferred start date, communicate it early.

Using recruitment agencies to your advantage

Working with a recruitment agency can be one of the most effective ways to secure a teaching role. Agencies already have strong relationships with schools and often hear about vacancies before they are advertised.

Benefits of using an agency like TLTP Education

• Expert support with CVs and applications
• Insight into schools you are looking for
• Opportunities that match your career ambitions

Building a standout application

Competition can be strong, so it is important to make your application stand out. Here are a few practical ways to strengthen your profile:

Tailor your CV
Highlight the experience and skills that are most relevant to the role you want.

Show your flexibility
Schools value teachers who can adapt to different environments, so make sure you communicate your willingness to support a range of needs.

Stay up to date
Ensure your qualifications, safeguarding training and DBS checks are all current and ready to go.

Why February and Easter starts might suit you better

Not everyone is ready for a January move. February and Easter provide excellent alternatives; teachers complete fixed term contracts and schools expand year groups. This creates steady demand right through spring.

• More time to prepare
• Additional vacancies after the February half-term reshuffle
• Fresh budgets and staffing changes
• An easier transition into the school once pupils have settled
• A natural mid-year or spring handover window

If you want to move early in the year but prefer a little more time, these options keep your opportunities wide open.

A simple checklist to stay organised

Here is a quick summary to keep you prepared:

• Update your CV
• Confirm your availability
• Identify locations and year groups / subjects you prefer
• Gather strong examples for interview answers
• Make sure your safeguarding training is up to date
• Stay open to both permanent and temporary roles
• Keep an eye on new vacancies each week
• Keep in regular contact with your consultant at TLTP so that they are aware of your availability and any updates that may affect your placements

Ready to start your next chapter?

January offers a fresh opportunity to explore new possibilities. Whether you are interested in vibrant city schools or supportive community settings, the need for enthusiastic educators continues to grow.

TLTP Education is here to guide you through this busy season and help you secure a teaching position that suits your ambitions. Request a call back and take the first step toward a rewarding new stage in your teaching journey.