I began my teaching career in the very early seventies, and had to complete only three short Teaching Practices at three different schools during my postgraduate teacher training year. My tutor was approached by all three Heads asking him to sound me out as to accepting a post at their schools. In addition, two other Heads asked him to recommend a promising student and he gave them my name too. So in effect I had five job offers before I had even qualified. This wasn't because of any outstanding talent on my part (although I did achieve a Distinction), but as Steve says, there was a serious shortage of new teachers.

In Scotland there was a two-year probation period after qualifying, and 'probationary teachers' were much cheaper. One's salary went up after successfully completing the two years. So my cheapness was also a factor in their enthusiasm!

I accepted the poshest school, and enjoyed it, but moved to a much poorer district where the social deprivation was appalling, and absolutely adored everything.