CANDIDATE PRIORITIES PULSE CHECK
Education professionals are making considered career decisions based on more than salary alone. After several disrupted academic years, candidates are clearer on their priorities, more confident asking questions and more selective about where they choose to work. This resource outlines practical actions colleges can take to attract and retain the right people.
What Education Professionals Want Now
And How to Respond
Education professionals are making considered career decisions based on more than salary alone. After several disrupted academic years, candidates are clearer on their priorities, more confident asking questions, and more selective about where they choose to work.
This resource outlines practical actions colleges can take to attract and retain the right people.
Candidate Priorities: Pulse Check
Stability and Clarity
Candidates want to understand expectations upfront — including workload, timetables, contract length, and how success is measured.
Uncertainty is a key deterrent.
Flexible, Sustainable Working
Flexibility is no longer viewed as a “perk” but a baseline expectation, particularly around working hours, planning time, and work–life balance.
Supportive Leadership
Visible leadership, accessible line managers, and strong induction support consistently influence acceptance decisions.
How Priorities Differ by Role Type
Senior Leadership
(Principals, Directors, Heads of Department)
Top priorities
- Strategic influence and autonomy
- Alignment with organisational values
- Stability and clarity around governance and expectations
- Support from executive teams and boards
What this means
- Be clear about decision-making authority and challenges
- Share your vision, values, and leadership culture early
- Avoid over-selling — experienced leaders value honesty
Teaching Roles
(FE, SEND, Adult Education)
Top priorities
- Manageable workloads and realistic timetables
- Strong induction and classroom support
- Access to CPD and subject-specific development
- Flexibility around hours, planning, and personal commitments
What this means
- Clearly outline teaching loads and support structures
- Showcase CPD pathways and mentoring
- Avoid vague language around “fast-paced” or “resilience”
Support & Pastoral Roles
Top priorities
- Role clarity and recognition
- Integration into wider college culture
- Consistent hours and job security
- Clear line management and communication
What this means
- Be specific about responsibilities and impact
- Highlight how support teams are valued and included
- Clarify contract terms and progression opportunities
What Education Candidates Value Most
Development and Progression
Even where promotion isn’t immediate, candidates want a clear commitment to CPD, skill-building, and long-term growth.
Purpose and Impact
Many candidates are seeking roles aligned with their values, where they can make a tangible difference to learners and communities.
Key insight:
Salary still matters — but it’s increasingly weighed alongside culture, flexibility, and support.
How to Reflect These Priorities in Practice
In Job Adverts
- Be transparent about hours, contracts, and flexibility
- Highlight support, induction, and development — not just duties
- Use inclusive, human language rather than generic sector phrases
Example
Instead of:
“Must thrive in a fast-paced environment”
Try:
“You’ll be supported by an experienced team and clear expectations.”
In Interviews
- Invite questions about culture, workload, and support
- Be honest about challenges as well as opportunities
- Ensure panels reflect consistency and preparedness
Candidates often decide how they feel about a role based on the interview experience.
In Onboarding
- Share a clear first-term plan
- Introduce support networks early
- Set regular check-ins during the first 90 days
Early engagement = stronger retention.
Final Insight
Candidates in early 2026 are informed, values-led, and focused on long-term fit. Schools and colleges that respond with clarity, authenticity, and people-first practices will stand out — and secure talent faster.
Contact
Candidate Priorities Pulse Check
📞 0117 422 9420
📧 info@dovetailslate.co.uk
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We’re here to help build your people experience from day one.