UK Public Sector Pay Scales 2026/27 With Take-Home Pay
Official pay scales for NHS staff and teachers in England, with what each pay point takes home after tax and National Insurance.
How to read a public sector pay scale
Public sector pay is set on published scales rather than negotiated one job at a time. Each job sits in a band (NHS) or on a pay range (teachers), and each band or range has one or more pay points. You start at the entry point and move up as you gain experience, usually once a year or every few years depending on the scheme. The salary shown is your gross basic pay before tax; allowances such as London weighting and extra payments for unsocial hours or responsibility come on top.
Why take-home pay is lower than the salary
Income tax and National Insurance come out of every public sector salary, and most staff also pay into a public service pension through payroll. Our figures show pay after tax and National Insurance, so your real take-home pay will be a little lower once your pension contribution is taken off. Use the take-home pay calculator to add your own pension percentage, and the pay rise calculator to see what a move up a band or point is worth.
England only
These scales are for England. Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland set their own NHS and teacher pay, which can differ, so check the official publication for where you work.
Every figure comes from the official publication named on each page. Figures last checked 8 October 2026.
Figures are for the 2026/27 tax year from official sources and are estimates for guidance only, not financial or legal advice. Printed from ukanswers.co.uk.