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Becoming a teacher is a rewarding journey that requires a combination of education, training, and personal commitment. As a teacher, you’ll use your knowledge to inspire the next generation and by doing so, you’ll gain plenty of transferable skills along the way.

 

As a teacher, job satisfaction is guaranteed as you get to watch your pupils learn and develop. Getting into teaching has several benefits such as opportunities for career progression, great job security, competitive salary, generous holiday allowance and an excellent pension.

 

Whether you’re passionate about shaping young minds in a primary school, guiding teenagers in secondary education, or supporting students with special educational needs (SEN), this guide outlines the steps you need to take to enter the teaching profession. 

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1. Understand the Role of a Teacher

 

Before you decide to pursue a teaching career, it’s important to understand the broad scope of responsibilities that teachers take on. Teaching involves much more than just delivering lessons; it’s about shaping the academic, social, and emotional development of students. Here are some of the key roles and responsibilities that define the teaching profession: 

 

  • Planning lessons and delivering instruction tailored to the age group and subject. 
  • Assessing student progress and providing feedback to help them improve. 
  • Creating a safe and inclusive classroom environment that supports all learners. 
  • Collaborating with colleagues, parents, and guardians to support students’ well-being. 
  • Maintaining an organised and conducive learning environment. 
  • Adapting lessons, offering extra help, or working with special educational needs (SEN) students. 
  • Working closely with other educators, support staff, and school leadership to ensure a positive experience for all students. 
  • Maintaining records of student progress, attendance, and behaviour. 

2. Choose Your Teaching Specialisation

 

The qualifications required to become a teacher can vary depending on the age group and the specific needs of the students you wish to teach. The three main specialisations are: 

 

Primary Teacher

Educates children aged 5-11. Primary teachers cover a broad curriculum, including literacy, numeracy, science, and the arts. They play a key role in the early stages of a child’s education, laying the foundation for future learning. Click here to learn more about the role of a primary teacher. 

   

Secondary Teacher

Specialises in teaching a specific subject, such as English, mathematics, or science, to students aged 11-18. Secondary teachers need a deep understanding of their subject area and the ability to inspire teenagers during a crucial period of their education. Click here to learn more about the role of a secondary teacher. 

 

SEN Teacher

Works with children and young people who have special educational needs or disabilities. SEN teachers may work in mainstream schools, special schools, or SEN units, and require specialised training to meet the diverse needs of their students. Click here for more information about the role of an SEN teacher. 

3. Obtain Relevant Qualifications

 

The qualifications you need will depend on your chosen teaching specialisation. Here are the general steps: 

 

Earn a Degree

 

To become a teacher, you must first obtain a degree. If you aim to teach at the primary level, your degree can be in any subject, though education or a subject relevant to the primary curriculum is advantageous.

 

For secondary teaching, your degree should ideally be in the subject you wish to teach. Check out this UCAS page to learn more about the subjects you may wish to study on your path to becoming a teacher. 

Complete Initial Teacher Training (ITT)

 

After obtaining a degree, you must complete a teacher training program. There are several routes to achieving this: 

 

Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE):

A popular route where you earn a postgraduate qualification that includes both academic study and practical teaching experience in schools. Click here to learn more about acquiring a PGCE. 

 

School-Centered Initial Teacher Training (SCITT):

A school-based training program that offers hands-on teaching experience. Read more about SCITT here. 

 

Undergraduate Teacher Training:

Some individuals choose to pursue an undergraduate degree that leads directly to qualified teacher status (QTS), particularly if they know early on they want to become teachers. 

Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)

 

QTS is a requirement for teaching in most schools. You can obtain QTS through various ITT routes.

 

If you’re training through a postgraduate program like a PGCE or SCITT, achieving QTS is usually included as part of the course.

 

For those interested in SEN teaching, additional specialised qualifications or endorsements may be required depending on the role. Read Indeed’s guide for more information on how to become an SEN teacher. 

4. Gain Classroom Experience

 

Practical experience is a critical component of teacher training. Most ITT programs include placements in schools, where you’ll gain hands-on experience under the guidance of experienced teachers. This period of training allows you to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings, develop classroom management skills, and learn how to engage students of different abilities and backgrounds.

 

In the early stages of your training, much of your classroom experience will involve observing experienced teachers. This allows you to see different teaching styles, classroom management techniques, and how lessons are structured. It’s also a chance to learn how teachers engage with students and handle challenges.

 

As you progress through your training, you’ll move from observation to leading lessons yourself. This teaching practice is critical, as it allows you to apply what you’ve learned in your coursework directly to the classroom. You’ll plan and deliver lessons, assess student progress, and manage the classroom, all under the supervision of a mentor.

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5. Apply for Teaching Positions

 

After completing your training and gaining the necessary qualifications, the next step is applying for teaching positions. This stage is crucial as it marks the transition from being a trainee to taking on a full-time or part-time teaching role. 

 

One effective way to find teaching positions is by working with an education recruitment agency. At Career Teachers, we have established relationships with reputable schools across England. By registering with us, you gain access to a wide range of job opportunities, including ones that may not be advertised publicly.

 

If you’re looking for flexibility, we can help you find supply teaching roles, part-time positions, or long-term placements that fit your schedule and career goals. We also provide valuable support throughout the job search process, from helping you refine your CV to preparing for interviews. View our latest teaching jobs by clicking here.

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Tips for Applying for Teaching Roles

 

Whether you’re applying through an agency or directly to schools, there are several key steps you can take to improve your chances of securing a teaching position:

 

Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter

Your CV should highlight your relevant qualifications, classroom experience, and any specialised skills or training you have. Tailor your CV and cover letter to each specific role you’re applying for.

 

Research the School

Before applying, take the time to research the school. Understand its ethos, values, and the community it serves. Tailor your application to reflect how you align with the school’s mission and how you can contribute to its goals.

 

Prepare a Strong Teaching Portfolio

A well-organised teaching portfolio can be a powerful tool during the application process. Include lesson plans, assessments, examples of student work, and feedback from mentors or supervisors.

 

Prepare for Interviews

If your application is successful, you’ll likely be invited to an interview. Prepare by practicing common interview questions and developing thoughtful responses that highlight your strengths and experience.

 

Follow Up

After an interview or submitting an application, a polite follow-up email can reinforce your interest in the position. Thank the interviewers for their time, express your continued enthusiasm for the role, and briefly restate why you’re a strong fit for the position.

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Becoming a teacher requires hard work and dedication, but the rewards of shaping young lives are immense.

 

Whether you choose to work in a primary school, secondary school, or specialise in SEN, the steps outlined in this guide will help you get started on your fulfilling career in education.
 

Are you looking for a teaching role? Get in touch with our team or view our latest vacancies by clicking below. 

 

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