How Skinners’ Kent Academy Secured Top Teachers with Point to Point Education

When recruitment challenges mount, student outcomes and staff wellbeing can be at risk. For Skinners’ Kent Academy – a thriving non-selective 11–18 school in Tunbridge Wells – securing high-quality teaching talent was proving difficult—until they partnered with Point to Point Education.

n this case study, we speak with Lorraine Barden, HR Manager at Skinners’ Academies Trust, about their experience navigating a tough teacher recruitment climate, and how our global talent pool and personalised service made all the difference after 2 months of fruitless advertising.

About the School

Skinners’ Kent Academy is part of Skinners’ Academies Trust, a collaborative group of six high-performing schools across Kent and London, educating more than 4,500 students. The Academy itself serves a diverse, all-ability cohort and is committed to academic excellence and inclusive learning from Years 7 to 13.

But like many schools, even the most high-performing teams face staffing shortages and subject-area gaps—especially in modern languages and humanities.

The Recruitment Challenge

Before working with us, Lorraine and her team were following a fairly standard recruitment process: identifying the need, writing job packs, posting vacancies on job boards, and screening CVs manually.

But what was meant to be routine became increasingly frustrating.

“We found challenges including a consistently poor quality of candidates,” Lorraine shared, “with many lacking the necessary skills or experience for the roles. There were also significant shortages in specific subject areas.”

Unfilled roles were putting extra pressure on subject teams. While student learning remained protected, it became harder for staff to maintain balance—and morale.

The Point to Point Difference

Lorraine recalls that working with Point to Point Education began organically. “You contacted us directly with details of two teachers that perfectly matched roles we had open at the time.”

Those roles? A Teacher of Spanish and a Teacher of History—both had been advertised for over two months without success.

What Made the Biggest Difference?

• ✔️ High-calibre candidates
• ✔️ Clear, prompt communication
• ✔️ Support during the onboarding process

Point to Point Education’s personalised approach was built by former educators who understand what it means to be in the classroom—and the school office. That practical experience makes our vetting process thorough and aligned to the unique culture and needs of each school.

Within weeks, both positions were filled by internationally trained teachers who came fully vetted, Visa-ready, and prepared for the UK curriculum.

The Results: “First Class” Outcomes

Lorraine describes the new hires as “efficient, organised and knowledgeable about their subject area,” adding that the feedback from department heads and SLT has been exceptionally positive.

Even more importantly, both teachers have integrated well into their teams, showing early signs of strong retention and alignment with the school’s culture.

“Yes, I would recommend Point to Point. The feedback from the teachers we hired has been extremely positive, and the service provided was first class.”

Why Schools Trust Point to Point Education

Since 2012, Point to Point Education has helped schools and trusts across the UK fill hard-to-staff roles with high-quality, committed international teachers. Our team is made up of former educators and recruitment specialists who have taught and worked in education systems around the world.

We offer:

• Permanent and fixed-term placements
• Visa and relocation support
• Compliance peace of mind
• A consultative, human-first approach

Our Values Are Simple:

• Trust – We work as your long-term recruitment partner, not just a one-time placement agency.
• Quality – Every teacher is personally interviewed and vetted for subject knowledge, professionalism, and cultural fit.
• Support – From Visa sponsorship to onboarding, we’re with you every step of the way.

Ready to Fill Your Vacancies?

Whether you’re recruiting for September or beyond, our Teacher Depot gives you free access to fully-vetted international teachers available for interview now.

From shortage subjects like Maths, Science, and MFL to long-term roles in English, Humanities, and SEN, Point to Point Education can help you find qualified, committed teachers who will enrich your school community.