Your pension scheme membership

Access to a high quality occupational pension scheme is an important and valuable benefit for the teaching profession. As a scheme member, you get an excellent package of pension benefits which are index linked and guaranteed by the Government.

For example, once you have accrued two years' service you’ll be entitled to receive a pension payable for life when you retire. Further benefits include the ability to transfer in previous pension rights, early retirement options should you become too ill to work and death benefits for your dependants that start from the day you join the scheme.

All teachers are automatically enrolled into the scheme from the start of their teaching employment in Scotland (or re-employment) and the contributions you make receive tax relief. Although enrolment is automatic, scheme membership is not compulsory and you can opt out if you choose.