Teacher

What sort of tasks would I be doing? 

In a primary school, you would be teaching children between the ages of three and 11 and would teach all subjects. So you might be teaching science one lesson and then doing English in the next.

In secondary schools you would teach pupils aged between 11 and 16 (up to 19 in sixth forms and colleges). You would also most likely teach just one or two subjects such as history or modern languages.

Teachers spend their time...

• Planning, preparing and delivering lessons
• putting up displays in the classroom
• marking work, giving feedback and keeping records of pupils' progress
• Keeping up-to-date with subject knowledge and changes in the national curriculum
• supporting pupils with any academic or personal problems
• managing pupil behaviour
• taking part in extracurricular activities, such as outings and sporting events
• taking part in school meetings and parents' evenings.

What qualifications would I need?

All teachers must first have a degree and GCSEs in English and maths and for primary school teachers, a science subject.

After that there are two routes into teaching:

• Complete the Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE)
• Learn on the job.

Traditionally studying for a PGCE takes one year full time or two years part time. However, it is becoming increasingly flexible - for example you can choose to do three months on your PGCE, then work for six months, then do another three and so on.

You don't need a degree in the subject you want to teach. However for secondary school teachers, you would need to show that you have knowledge and understanding of that subject.

You'll need to show evidence of interest and experience in working with children and that you have the ability to excite, engage and motivate pupils in their learning.

Ring the Teaching Information Line on 0845 6000 991

Have a look at Teach and the Training and Development Agency for Schools to find out more information about what’s involved with teaching and routes to get into it.