M6 Teacher Salary 2025/26
Main Pay Range Point 6 — top of MPR before crossing the threshold
Gross (annual)
£45,352
Net (TPS on)
£32,944
Net (monthly)
£2,745
About this pay scale
M6 is the top of the Main Pay Range (MPR). Most teachers progress one point per year through the MPR subject to successful annual performance review — so M6 is typically reached 5-6 years into teaching (counting from M1 as ECT Year 1).
Beyond M6, the next step is applying to cross the "threshold" onto the Upper Pay Range (U1-U3). This requires a portfolio submission demonstrating you meet the Threshold Standards, and is decided by the headteacher. Successful UPR crossings typically take 2 years on each upper point — so a teacher reaching M6 at year 5-6 might reach U1 around year 7 and U3 around year 11-13.
Compared across regions
| Region | Gross (annual) | Net (annual, TPS on) | Net (monthly) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rest of England | £45,352 | £32,944 | £2,745 |
| Fringe | £46,839 | £33,909 | £2,826 |
| Outer London | £50,474 | £35,876 | £2,990 |
| Inner London | £52,300 | £37,156 | £3,096 |
All four regions use entirely separate STPCD pay tables — not a percentage uplift. Net pay assumes TPS contributions are on at the applicable tier, no student loan, no salary sacrifice, 1.0 FTE.
FAQ
How long does it take to reach M6?
Most teachers progress one point per year through the MPR subject to satisfactory annual performance review. M1 → M6 typically takes 5 years — so a teacher who started in September 2020 would expect to be on M6 from September 2025 onwards (M1 in 2020/21 academic year, M6 in 2025/26).
What is the "threshold" between MPR and UPR?
A formal pay-progression decision point. To cross from M6 to U1, you submit a portfolio of evidence against the "post-threshold standards" — sustained good teaching, contribution beyond the classroom, and impact on pupil outcomes. The headteacher decides (with school governance oversight). Once crossed, you stay on UPR; you can't move back to MPR.
Can I stay on M6 instead of crossing to UPR?
Yes. You stay on M6 indefinitely if you don't apply or aren't approved. M6 pay continues to receive annual STRB awards. Many teachers stay on M6 by choice — UPR comes with implicit performance expectations that aren't for everyone.
Try the calculator
The figures on this page assume a full-time teacher (1.0 FTE) on TPS at the appropriate contribution tier, no student loan, no salary sacrifice. Real life is more nuanced — use the calculator to layer in your specific situation (part-time FTE, TLR / SEN allowances, student loan, exact pay point) and see your real take-home.