Teaching and Education in Liverpool City: A Vibrant and Supportive Environment

Liverpool City is home to one of the UK's most diverse and dynamic education sectors. With its deep cultural roots, inclusive spirit, and strong professional networks, the city provides meaningful opportunities for educators to grow, collaborate, and make a lasting impact.

Liverpool supports a wide range of teaching roles and school settings across its 144 primary schools, 59 secondary schools, and 48 post-16 providers. Whether you’re an early years practitioner, subject specialist, or school leader, you’ll find an environment in Liverpool that values your contribution and supports your development.

Education in Liverpool City: A Closer Look

Liverpool City's education system follows the standard UK structure while reflecting the unique character and needs of this historic port city.

Early Years

Liverpool offers a wide variety of early years provision, including:

  • Private and maintained nurseries

  • Preschool and early learning centres

  • Free nursery classes in primary schools

  • Children’s centres offering integrated support

All settings follow the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework, supporting children’s emotional, social, and cognitive development from birth to age five. Early years professionals are supported to take a holistic and child-centred approach, often integrating techniques aligned with our Positive Handling Training to ensure safe, respectful and confident care.

Primary Education

Liverpool’s primary schools reflect the city’s rich diversity, ranging from community and faith-based schools to academies and free schools. Educators work within the National Curriculum framework and are supported to foster inclusive, engaging environments across:

  • Key Stage 1 (Years 1–2)

  • Key Stage 2 (Years 3–6)

Working in Liverpool’s primary sector often involves teaching mixed-ability or multilingual classes—building relationships, adaptability, and inclusive teaching practices. Thrive’s Mental Health Training for Educators supports staff by identifying early signs of emotional distress and promoting resilience from a young age.

Secondary Education

Liverpool’s secondary schools offer rich opportunities for professionals across all subject areas. The city is home to community comprehensives, academies, faith schools, and specialist settings focusing on areas such as STEM, the arts, or sports.

Secondary teachers support students across:

  • Key Stage 3 (Years 7–9)

  • Key Stage 4 (Years 10–11), including preparation for GCSEs

Educators are often at the forefront of student wellbeing, curriculum development, and school leadership. Many go on to pursue professional growth through leadership roles, supported by training such as our Compassionate Leadership Course for Educators, which equips leaders to support both their teams and school culture with empathy and clarity.

Post-16 and Further Education

Liverpool’s 48 post-16 providers offer a broad range of options for young people, including:

  • Sixth forms

  • Further education colleges

  • Vocational training centres

  • Apprenticeship providers

Qualifications include A-levels, BTECs, T-levels, and other technical pathways. Teachers in this phase often play a vital role in guiding students through life-changing transitions, combining academic support with personal mentorship.

Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND)

Liverpool has a well-established commitment to inclusive education. Provision includes:

  • Special schools

  • Resource bases within mainstream schools

  • Alternative provision for pupils needing tailored support

  • Outreach and inclusion services

SEND professionals in Liverpool are supported by a strong multi-agency network, helping them respond to complex needs with compassion and confidence.

Career Development in Liverpool City

Educators in Liverpool benefit from a vibrant culture of professional learning, supported by partnerships with:

  • The University of Liverpool

  • Liverpool John Moores University

  • Liverpool Hope University

  • The Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts (LIPA)

Opportunities include:

  • Initial Teacher Training and SCITT programmes

  • Early Career Teacher support
    Ongoing CPD tailored to subjects and phases

  • Leadership development pathways

  • Collaborative research and school improvement partnerships

Liverpool is also home to a growing network of Multi-Academy Trusts (MAT), including:

  • The Liverpool Learning Partnership

  • The Rainbow Education Multi-Academy Trust

  • North Liverpool Academy Trust

  • The Liverpool Diocesan Schools Trust

  • The Hope Learning Trust

These MATs often offer cross-school collaboration, shared values, and clear routes for career progression.

A Professionally and Personally Rewarding Place to Work

Professional Benefits

A variety of school types and specialisms

  • Opportunities to work with culturally diverse student populations

  • Strong collaboration across schools and trusts

  • A thriving local CPD and leadership development network

  • Innovative teaching and curriculum approaches

Quality of Life

Beyond the classroom, Liverpool offers a vibrant and supportive lifestyle:

  • Affordable housing options

  • Excellent public transport and regional links

  • A world-famous arts and music scene

  • Community spirit and friendliness at every turn

  • Access to parks, green spaces, and nearby coastlines

A City Where Educators Can Thrive

Liverpool City offers more than just a job—it provides a career built on purpose, community, and continuous growth. Whether you're stepping into the classroom for the first time or looking to take your next step in leadership, this city provides the space and support to grow your impact.

Through connection, creativity, and compassionate leadership, educators in Liverpool help shape brighter futures every day.