Published 10 October 2026 · 2 min read
Many technical departments find it hard to recruit staff with current industry experience. Experienced tradespeople can make excellent teachers, but they are often not looking at education job boards, and they may not see themselves as teachers yet. This guide sets out practical points that colleges commonly consider when recruiting from industry.
Write the advert for the person you want
Adverts written in education language can put off people from industry. Explain the job in practical terms: what they would teach, the levels, the equipment and the mix of workshop and classroom time. Say clearly whether a teaching qualification is required at the start or can be gained in post, and what support is available.
Be clear about pay and pattern
Tradespeople will compare your offer with their current earnings, including overtime. Be open about the salary range, holiday, pension and hours, and how they compare in practice. Uncertainty about pay is a common reason people withdraw.
Design a fair assessment
A short micro-teach, a practical task and a structured interview usually give a fuller picture than a standard interview alone. Tell candidates in advance what the micro-teach involves and how long it is.
Plan the first year
People moving from industry benefit from structured induction, a named mentor, a realistic first timetable and early agreement on teaching qualification plans. Retention in the first year is often decided by how supported new staff feel in their first term.
Start pre-employment checks early
Background checks, references and right-to-work checks can take several weeks, and candidates from industry usually need to give notice to an employer. Starting these checks as soon as an offer is accepted, and keeping the candidate informed while they run, reduces the risk of losing them to a counter-offer. Agree a realistic start date that fits the teaching calendar, such as the start of a term, where possible.
Working with Trade2Teach
We find and pre-screen industry professionals for technical roles, check their subject experience and motivation, and only introduce candidates who have agreed to their profile being shared. Colleges pay a placement fee only when they appoint someone we introduce. To discuss a vacancy, contact our team.