How to Build a Recruitment Strategy That Emphasises Longevity
Education Recruitment these days isn’t just about filling vacancies—it’s about building lasting teams. For schools, longevity in staffing is more than a nice-to-have; it’s a cornerstone of stability, consistency, and a thriving school culture.
So how can schools recruit with long-term success in mind?
Why Longevity Matters
High staff turnover impacts pupil progress, strains budgets, and erodes team morale. Teachers who stay are better able to:
✅ Develop deeper relationships with students and families
✅ Contribute to a positive and consistent school culture
✅ Support and mentor new colleagues
✅ Deliver improved educational outcomes over time
When schools think beyond “Who can we hire now?” to “Who will grow with us?”, everyone benefits.
5 Key Ways to Embed Longevity into Your Recruitment Strategy
1. Hire for Alignment, Not Just Qualification
Look beyond the CV. Does the candidate share your school’s values? Are they invested in your vision? Teachers who feel aligned with the school’s ethos are more likely to commit for the long haul.
2. Be Transparent from the Start
Clear expectations around workload, support, and development go a long way. Misunderstandings early in the process often lead to early exits. Honest conversations during interviews help ensure a good fit—for both parties.
3. Promote Career Pathways
Show candidates what their journey could look like at your school. Whether it’s subject leadership, pastoral roles, or CPD opportunities, teachers are more likely to stay when they see potential for growth.
4. Prioritise Wellbeing and Work-Life Balance
Burnout is a major driver of attrition. Highlight policies or practices that support wellbeing—from PPA time to flexible working arrangements. Teachers who feel looked after are far more likely to remain.
5. Invest in Induction and Mentoring
A strong start sets the tone. Comprehensive onboarding, buddy systems, and early professional support help new staff feel connected and confident—crucial ingredients for long-term retention.
Final Thought
Retention starts with recruitment. When we shift our focus from short-term fixes to sustainable hires, we create schools where both staff and students thrive.
A recruitment strategy that emphasises longevity isn’t just a smart move—it’s an investment in your school’s future.
Founder & Search Director
ED Recruit Ltd
Web: www.edrecruit.co.uk
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/105228894/admin/dashboard/