You have found your perfect teaching job in Portsmouth, you have visited the school, met with colleagues and have a start date. To get you ready for the big day, our latest guide gives you four reasons why you should live in the waterfront city. 

A lifestyle that's hard to beat

There are plenty of reasons to move to Portsmouth. For many, being by the sea is a key factor for moving. It can create a new zest for life and can enable us to reconnect with each other.

Southsea Seafront provides a fantastic opportunity to explore the city's proud naval heritage or walk along the seawall or piers at your own pace. Portsmouth provides an envious lifestyle where you are never far from the coast and the activities on offer nearby. 

A support network from the get-go 

If you are unfamiliar with the area or don't have the support network from back home, Portsmouth is well known for its caring community of education professionals.

Those joining the profession in the city will be welcomed into the Portsmouth Education Partnership, a community of teachers, senior leaders and organisations who work together to ensure children and young people receive the best education possible.

While the partnership will often involve senior school leaders and local government working together, the decisions they take will affect how services are delivered. The partnership can signpost resources and services which can support your own development within the profession. 

A cheaper cost of living

For most, the decision to move will be motivated by many things. You might want a new challenge, to progress in your career or start a new life somewhere more affordable. 

While this will depend on where you are moving from, Portsmouth provides a cheaper cost of living than London. According to Expatistan, the waterfront city is around 42% cheaper than London. This is based on many factors including the cost of housing, entertainment, personal care, food, transportation and clothes. 

If you are looking to buy a property in the city, there are many government-backed schemes to help you finance your dream home. Alternatively, if you want to get a feel for the area before committing, Portsmouth is an affordable place to rent, with people paying on average £953 per month. (Taken from Zoopla). 

A perfect place for families

Families can enjoy a perfect balance between good schools and amazing days out. Whether that's enjoying long summer walks on the beach or swimming at one of the city's leisure centres, Portsmouth is the perfect place for families. Over 90% of the city's schools have been rated good or outstanding by Ofsted too.

There are also museums and activity clubs that will keep your little ones entertained throughout the year. While the city has many shops to explore, you are never far from a beach, park or harbour. 

Start something new today 

If you are still working out your options or are yet to apply for a teaching job in the city, the living section of the Teach Portsmouth website is a good place to start. It will give you a snapshot of what's available in the city and what your life might be like here. Take a look and start something new today!