7 Routes Into Teaching

If the thought of inspiring future generations and setting a good example is something you aspire to do, then a career in teaching may be the right career path for you. A recent study shows that 83% of teachers love their job. And despite all the trials and tribulations, and the unexpected challenges teachers face on a daily basis, to still enjoy your job is such an amazing feeling. If teaching is something that you want to do, then you must be wondering how you can get into this rewarding career? Well, this blog post aims to share 7 routes to get into teaching.

University-led Teacher Training

1. Getting a PGCE at University

Going to university and getting a PGCE (postgraduate certificate in education) is a very traditional route to get into teaching. In order to enrol onto a PGCE, you need to graduate with a university degree. PGCE courses usually last between 1 and 2 years (1 year if you choose to complete it full-time) and you need to complete a minimum of a 24-week recorded work experience at two different schools in order to reach QTS (qualified teaching status). In addition, PGCE is an internationally recognised qualification, so you can choose to teach in any country. This route is more academic in comparison to the other routes. The benefit of going through a university-led teaching training scheme is that you can receive a tax-free bursary of up to £26,000 to train as a teacher. If you don't have a university degree, there are several options you can explore by getting a degree with QTS.

School-lead

If you prefer to have a more hands-on approach to learning then you can explore a number of school-led teacher training schemes.

2. School-Centred Initial Teacher Training (SCITT)

Neighbouring schools and colleges that have been approved to run school-centred courses are known as SCITT. SCITT provide practical hands-on teacher training which is delivered by experienced teachers, who are currently practising. Courses tend to last for about a year, with many programs including a PGCE, but you will need to do some further research to make sure the school does provide this qualification. Either way, completion of the SCITT will give you a QTS. SCITT helps aspiring teachers by giving them the necessary support and resources. And once you're ready, you can teach your own class under the relevant supervision.

3. School Direct Programme

Similar to SCITT, school direct courses are based on specific skills providers (i.e. schools and colleges) are looking for in newly qualified teachers. These courses are normally designed by schools who work in partnership with a university or SCITT. Completion of this course results in both QTS and a potential job offer at the same school you did your training.

School-Led Salary Training

4. School Direct (Salaried)

If you have been working for three years and you're interested in the school direct course, then you can apply for the school direct course which offers a salary. You will be paid and taxed as an unqualified teacher. Salaries will differ between schools.

5. Postgraduate Teaching Apprenticeship

With apprenticeships becoming increasingly popular, groups of schools have now designed their own apprenticeship programs which provides teaching experience, practical learning and a salary. During the apprenticeship, 20% of your time will be allocated to off-the-job learning to help you work towards your QTS. To pass the apprenticeship and achieve QTS, you will need to complete an end-point assessment (EPA).

Alternative Routes

6. Teach English Abroad

If you want to pursue a career in teaching but prefer not to go down the traditional teaching career routes mentioned above, then you might want to consider teaching English abroad. There is a huge demand for teachers who can teach English as a foreign language. You will need to complete a recognised qualification such as TEFL, which is accepted by academic institutions around the world. This route is perfect for anyone who wants to combine working and travelling/site seeing.

7. Teaching Assistant

If you're unsure whether teaching is the right career choice for you, you can opt to become a teaching assistant. Teaching assistants are in demand to help qualified-teachers with their increasing workload. You can volunteer as a teaching assistant so you can get a feel of what it is like to be a teacher. Alternatively, you can complete a teaching assistant qualification to help you get a salaried position.