fbpx

Choosing your career path is one of the most important decisions you’ll make in your lifetime.

 

Teaching is a profession that offers unique and rewarding opportunities. In fact, becoming a teacher is at the top of a lot of young people’s career aspirations – ranking 5th in the top 10 dream jobs.

 

Whether you’re driven by a passion for education or the desire to make a meaningful impact on the lives of young people, teaching can be a fulfilling career choice.

 

This article explores 7 reasons to get into teaching. It highlights the benefits and opportunities that make this profession not only attractive, but also essential in shaping the future. It also outlines how to become a teacher for those interested in starting their career within education.

 

So, why become a teacher?

1. Making a Difference

 

 

Think back to your own school days—there’s likely a teacher whose name you still remember. They made you feel valued and capable, especially during times of self-doubt. Imagine being that influential figure for the next generation.

 

One of the most powerful motivations for becoming a teacher is the opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of students. Teachers have the unique ability to inspire, mentor, and guide students through their academic and personal development.

 

By instilling a love for learning, helping students overcome challenges, and supporting their growth, teachers play a crucial role in shaping the next generation. The satisfaction of knowing that you’ve positively impacted a student’s life is unmatched.

2. Teaching is in Demand

 

 

With the world’s population continually growing, the demand for teachers has never been higher. Even in the face of technological advancements that threaten many job markets, teaching remains a profession in high demand.

 

Schools across England are currently experiencing a significant recruitment crisis, particularly for subjects like maths and science. Recruiting new teachers has become a top priority for the government to address this shortage. 2023 government figures showed that the target for secondary school teachers had been missed by 50%, especially in physics, where the recruitment target hit only 17%.

 

For those concerned about job prospects, future-proofing their careers, or job security, teaching is an excellent choice that meets all these needs. With education being a cornerstone of societal development, teachers will always be needed to educate and prepare future generations, making it a stable career choice. 

3. Flexible Working Hours

 

 

Teaching offers not only job security but also flexible working opportunities, making it an attractive career choice for many.

 

For those seeking variety or a more adaptable schedule, supply teaching is an excellent option. Supply teachers can enjoy the freedom to choose when and where they work, making it easier to balance personal commitments or explore different school environments.

 

At Affinity Workforce, we specialise in connecting teachers with flexible teaching roles, ensuring that you find positions that match your needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a career that combines security with flexibility, teaching through Affinity could be the perfect fit. Click here to get in touch with our team.

4. Getting to Learn as You Teach

 

 

Teaching is a continuous learning journey. As a teacher, you will constantly expand your own knowledge and skills and grow alongside your students.

 

Preparing lessons, staying updated with the latest trends in education, and engaging with inquisitive students all contribute to your professional and personal growth.

 

As you develop and deliver your curriculum, you’ll gain deeper insights into how children learn and retain information. This process involves applying the latest research and evidence-based practices, ensuring that your methods are both current and impactful.

 

Teachers will also develop valuable soft skills such as public speaking, time management, and organisation throughout their careers. This ongoing learning process keeps the job exciting, ensuring that teachers remain lifelong learners.

5. Career Progression Opportunities

 

Teachers have numerous career progression opportunities, allowing them to advance and diversify their roles within the field of education. Here are some of the different career paths teachers can consider:

 

Department Head:

Lead a specific subject area, coordinating curriculum development and supporting fellow teachers within the department. 

 

Curriculum Coordinator:

Design and implement curriculum across various grades or subjects, ensuring alignment with educational standards and enhancing student learning outcomes. 

 

Specialist Teacher:

Focus on areas such as special education, English as a second language (ESL), or special education, providing targeted support to specific student populations. 

 

Higher Education Instructor:

Teach at the college or university level, training future educators and contributing to academic research in education. 

 

School Administrator:

Move into roles such as assistant principal or principal, overseeing school operations, managing staff, and shaping school policy. 

 

Instructional Coach:

Mentor and support teachers in developing effective teaching strategies, integrating technology, and improving classroom management. 

6. Competitive Salaries

 

 

Contrary to common misconceptions, teaching can offer competitive salaries. According to national statistics, qualified teachers can expect starting salaries ranging from around £28,000 to £34,000, with higher rates in inner London. As teachers gain experience, their salaries can increase significantly, with experienced educators earning over £48,000.

 

Leading practitioners and headteachers can earn even higher salaries, with potential earnings reaching between £44,000 and £118,000, depending on location and level of responsibility.

 

In terms of job market suitability, teacher training programs often include practical experience within schools. This hands-on training ensures that graduates are well-prepared to enter the workforce immediately upon completing their qualifications. Few professions offer such a seamless transition from education to employment, making teaching an attractive career choice for those hoping to start earning money straight away.

7. Every day is different

 

 

One of the exciting aspects of being a teacher is that every day brings something new and different. Each student has a unique personality and learning style, making every interaction and lesson distinct.

 

The curiosity and enthusiasm of young minds lead to surprising and delightful moments, filled with unexpected questions and discoveries. For individuals who thrive on variety and new challenges, teaching is the perfect profession.

 

You’ll encounter new students each year, work with diverse curriculum material, explore fresh topics, and continually adapt to new educational trends. This constant change ensures that teaching is always engaging, keeping you on your toes and preventing boredom.

How to become a teacher

 

Becoming a teacher involves several key steps, starting with obtaining the necessary qualifications and gaining practical experience. Here is a  guide on how to pursue a teaching career in the UK:

 

 

1. Obtain a Bachelor’s Degree

 

The first step is to obtain a bachelor’s degree. You can choose either an undergraduate teaching degree or a degree in a specific subject area followed by a postgraduate teaching qualification.

 

Here are the common pathways:

 

 

  • Bachelor of Arts (BA) or Bachelor of Science (BSc) with QTS: These degrees incorporate Qualified Teacher Status (QTS), allowing you to teach immediately after graduating.

 

  • Subject-Specific Degree: If you have a passion for a particular subject, you can complete a BA or BSc in that subject and then pursue a postgraduate teaching qualification.

2. Complete Initial Teacher Training (ITT)

 

 

If your bachelor’s degree does not include QTS, you will need to complete an Initial Teacher Training program. There are several routes available:

 

 

 

  • Teach First: A two-year program that places graduates in schools in challenging areas, combining teaching with leadership development.

3. Achieve Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)

 

 

To teach in most schools in England and Wales, you need QTS. This can be achieved through:

 

  • Undergraduate programs that include QTS.

 

  • Postgraduate programs like the PGCE or SCITT that lead to QTS.

 

  • Assessment Only (AO) Route: For those with significant teaching experience, this route assesses your teaching skills to award QTS without further training.

4. Complete the Induction Year

 

Early career teachers (ECTs) in the UK undergo a two-year induction period designed to support their transition from initial teacher training to becoming fully qualified and confident classroom teachers. This induction period, recently extended from one to two years, provides structured support and professional development to ensure ECTs develop their teaching skills and achieve the required standards.

 

ECTs will teach classes in their assigned schools, applying the knowledge and skills they gained during their initial teacher training. They gradually take on more responsibility for planning, delivering, and assessing lessons.

 

Each ECT is assigned a mentor, typically an experienced teacher, who provides regular one-to-one support and guidance. Mentors help ECTs reflect on their practice, set professional development goals, and work through challenges.

 

Learn more about the Early Career Framework

Teaching is more than just a job; it is a career that offers various personal and professional benefits.

 

From making a significant impact on students’ lives to enjoying job security, the reasons to become a teacher are compelling. With the promise of continuous learning, career growth, and a dynamic work environment, teaching stands out as a fulfilling and rewarding career choice. 

 

If you are passionate about education and eager to make a difference, teaching might be the perfect path for you. 

 

Are you looking for your next teaching job? Contact our team today or explore our latest vacancies by clicking below. 

 

View our latest jobs