Career in education: how to become a teacher in the UK

The Greek philosopher Aristotle said that ‘those who know do, those that understand teach’ and having both a deep understanding of the teaching subjects and the pupils’ learning curve are precious qualities that only few teachers possess. In terms of teaching skills, if you are planning to pursue the career in education, you should have at least the following ones: patience, creativity, communication skills, likeable personality and self-discipline.

If you want to become a teacher in the UK there are specific steps that you have to complete. In particular, you have to obtain the Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) if you plan to teach in a ‘maintained primary school, maintained secondary school, maintained special school and non-maintained special school.’  According to GOV.UK, maintained schools are an integral part of England’s state-fund schools system usually financed by local authorities.

If you completed your training outside the UK, EEA or Switzerland you will have to complete an accredited training programme (that takes place exclusively in England) in order to obtain QTS.

Having a degree is the main premise that will allow you to start the path towards the Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) that is usually based on a specific programme of Initial Teacher Training (ITT). There are some basic requirements that you have to achieve, namely, in GCSE English, maths and science. Keep in mind that if you are interested in independent and free school systems you will not be required to have QTS. Of course, having this Status will open a wider range of teaching opportunities.

How do you complete your application for QTS? It is possible through NCTL Teacher Service, but make sure you have already prepared the following mandatory documents: ‘copies of qualifications and identification together with evidence that you are qualified to teach in your country of origin.

If, for example, you are interested in a fixed-term teaching experience, according to the British Council you can spend a year as a language assistant in French, German, Italian, Mandarin Chinese or Spanish. And in order to do that you can ‘apply to the relevant partner agency in your home country.’

Being a teacher requires dedication, passion and love for knowledge and people, so don’t miss the Ten books every teacher should read recommended by The Guardian. Becoming a passionate teacher is not a path that everyone is willing to undertake. Being reserved for those who have the right amount of courage and energy, it can be one of the most rewarding careers.

Start exploring Jobrapido and learn more about job positions for teachers in the UK!