A new career in teaching 15

Kavon - Hi, I am currently coming to the end of a BA degree in Business Studies and I am interested in training to become a teacher in September/October 2009. I am interested in teaching business studies and/or PE at secondary school level. Could you please advise me on which steps to take?

Teaching consultant - You will need to gain your QTS (qualified teacher status) to work in schools in England or Wales. This will be a one year programme which includes at least 24 weeks in school, either a PGCE or GTP. You apply for the subject you want to teach which in most cases is a subject studied during your degree so Business studies or possibly ICT or maths would be the most realistic options with your Business studies degree. Check http://www.gttr.ac.uk and http://www.tda.gov.uk/ebr for details of these routes. Also put into place a programme of school observation days to enhance your application.

Anita - I have also considered teaching cookery/food science at secondary, but have no formal qualifications. I have tried searching for information on how to train for this type of post, and can't find any advice any where. Can you help?

Teaching consultant - All teachers in school are now graduates so a degree is the first step you need to take. If you take this in a food science subject you could then go on to take a one year postgraduate course in either KS1 or secondary DT (with food as your specialism) Whilst you are doing your degree get into schools to observe teachers in both your choices to confirm the area you would like to train to teach.

Ian - Hi, I'm 26 and have a degree in journalism in which I graduated in 2003, I am currently taking my City & Guilds Level 2 Numeracy qualification. I am unsure whether to go into secondary or primary school teaching and what routes to take.

Teaching consultant - As a graduate you will need a one year training programme to gain your QTS to work in school. This one year could be in either primary or secondary teaching - you will need to choose when applying. You would be particularly welcomed in primary teaching as men are currently underrepresented there. Get into school to observe teachers and this will help you to make your informed decision.

Leanne - hi there, I am interested in doing primary school PGCE but do not have any GCSEs. Please can you advise me on what to do?

Teaching consultant - To start a QTS course for primary you need to have your maths, English and science GCSEs (or a recognised alternative) in place. Some courses have an equivalence test you can take, contact your chosen course provider to check the options they accept.

Sophia - Can a teacher that works part-time still go on the fast track programme?

Teaching consultant - The fast track programme has now been discontinued.

Sophia - Can a part-time teacher still get learning and responsibility allowances?

Teaching consultant - Yes, this is up to your school.

Julie - Hi, my question is about school-centred initial teacher training - is it as highly regarded as a PGCE or do you need to gain your PGCE as well?

Teaching consultant - All routes which award QTS are good routes into teaching in England and Wales. Most SCITT courses award a PGCE in addition to QTS. QTS is what schools are looking for as it is the national standard for teaching in England and Wales.

Sophia - I have been working as an interior designer for eight years and probably in the last couple of years have decided to think about Teaching. I have a place at a university to do a PGCE in Secondary Art and Design in September. I have a one year old son and my partner and l want more children in the future. Is teaching a good career to have with children? I am also worried about the money side of teaching too.

Teaching consultant - With its flexibility of your time, outside the core hours you need to be in school, teaching is 'children friendly' Teachers have a clear, defined pay structure, newly qualified teachers start on £20,000+ (£24,000+ in Inner London). You can check out the full structure on http://www.teach.gov.uk

Jez - I am currently deciding whether to apply for primary or secondary school teaching courses. Would you have any suggestions as to how to choose between these? (I have eight years experience of teaching English to adult speakers of other languages.) Realistically, is it now too late to get a GTP place for September?

Teaching consultant - Most, at least, of GTP places are already filled for September as it is a very popular route into teaching. You can check with your local GTP training providers their details are on http://www.tda.gov.uk/ebrcontacts Classroom observation experience and talking to experienced classroom teachers are the key ways to check out which age range to apply for. TIL 0845 6000 991 can put an experienced classroom teacher in touch with you if you request to talk to one of our teaching advocates.

helena6169 - Good afternoon, I am considering training to become a teacher. I studied a degree in economics but I did not finish it. I would like to become a KS1 teacher in MFL in Spanish. This degree is not related with the subject I intend to teach, so it would be interesting to start another one related with education?

Teaching consultant - A primary, ks1 teacher teaches all subjects of the curriculum. Your economics degree has maths, ICT knowledge for example which you would highlight in an application for training. If you have good Spanish language skills then a primary course tutor would be keen to hear about these also as part of your application and you could apply to a course with a Spanish specialism.

Rusty - Good afternoon. I have a degree in French and another, non-curriculum, language. However, I graduated a number of years ago and have not used my languages since. I am considering PGCE primary with French but am concerned that my language skills are too rusty. Do you have any idea what sort of written/spoken standard is required for this course?

Teaching consultant - Individual courses will vary but as you have studied French at degree level this should be enough. Brush up your skills with self study and contact your chosen course providers about your background.

Alison - I have an MA in modern history and politics, and have worked as a professional sculptor for 15 years. Would I be able to teach art at secondary school? Or to teach in FE would I need a PGCE? I do private tuition, run workshops for gifted and talented Yr 13s and teach groups of adults.

Teaching consultant - You will need to do a postgraduate programme to gain your QTS (qualified teacher status) to work as a teacher in schools. A PGCE is the main option for art but you may also be able to get a place on a GTP (graduate teacher programme) http://www.tda.gov.uk/ebrcontacts will give you the contact detail for this.

Salma - Hi there, just after some advice - as a student with a degree in psychology I am hoping to apply for secondary science. However, I do not have any A levels within science. How strong is my application? I really want to start my PGCE this September. I have also applied for the booster class- what more can I do?

Teaching consultant - If you have a good element of science in your degree you may be accepted onto a one year PGCE, this is up to the course provider so contact them to discuss the suitability of your background. If not acceptable they can recommend an enhancement course for six months before starting your PGCE. This is funded at £225 per week. See http://www.teach.gov.uk/enhancement

friedfish - I want to teach secondary school level. I have a scientific background but have also extensive maths knowledge. Would it be advisable to take a Maths PGCE course and still be able to teach both science and maths?

Teaching consultant - If you train for maths you can then also offer to teach science once you are qualified in school. It also works the other way round! Both are good options.

Rachel - I graduated with a BA in American Studies in 1997. Since working for 10 years in a large telecoms firm I have become more interested in IT and science than I thought possible as an arts graduate. I feel I need to be quite pragmatic if I move into teaching and in an ideal world would be interested in ICT/science (secondary) - would I need to start again from scratch with a new science-based degree? Any suggestions on the most pragmatic/realistic approach would be great.

Teaching consultant - Great, science and ICT are priority subjects at the moment. You will need to choose one initially for your training year but can teach the other once qualified in school. You can boost your science knowledge to become a science teacher by taking a six month funded (£225 per week) enhancement course to deepen and widen your subject knowledge before your one year teacher training. You can find details of this on http://www.teach.gov.uk/enhancement - PGCE providers may accept you for the ICT based on your current experience; contact them to ask if this might be possible.

fidelis - I have a first degree in geography since 2001 and have taught geography for three years in a secondary school abroad without any teacher qualified status. I wish to consider teaching as a career profession and will be interested in teaching geography in secondary school. Can you help me?

Teaching consultant - You will need to take a course to get your QTS (qualified teacher status). A flexible PGCE, see http://www.gttr.ac.uk for these or a GTP (graduate teacher programme), see http://www.tda.gov.uk/ebr will take into account the experience you have when planning your training which will take up to a year.

Lisa - Hi I am Lisa and 22 years old I graduated last year. I do have few months experience already having worked as a teaching assistant in a primary school and as a classroom assistant in SEN School. I am not sure which route to take I was thinking for my circumstances that the GTP route would be ideal due to it paying a salary at least whereas the bursary for primary school courses has been lowered to 4,000 pounds a year in which University fees have to be paid. As I am a recent graduate is the GTP an ideal route and in order to get onto this would I have to find a position within a primary school first and than see whether I am applicable to get onto the GTP? I have asked my local EBITT providers and they said that they cannot provide me with a place I would have to do this myself looking on the internet and local papers.

Teaching consultant - For the GTP a school needs to decide to employ you as an unqualified teacher so the decision rests with the school. This means that for many EBITTs you need to find the school yourself.

Sophia - If the fast track programme has been discontinued how can you progress quickly?

Teaching consultant - The standards for developing your career after gaining QTS are clearly laid down see http://www.tda.gov.uk/qts You will be expected to work on your continued professional development and will get the support from your department and school with developing your career.

Ephraim - when is the last date to submit the application online for PGCE secondary.

Teaching consultant - Applications will be accepted as long as there are still vacancies for courses, so up until the course starts in September.

Moneeba - my question is regarding secondary teaching, I want to know what will be the best option for me to qualify as a maths teacher?

Teaching consultant -  All routes which lead to QTS are good options as they all train you to reach the national QTS standards. At this time of the year there are still places for graduates to gain places on the PGCE course, which is the main route into teaching. Check these on http://www.gttr.ac.uk Many GTP courses have now filled their places for September. You can check with your local ones on http://www.tda.gov.uk/ebrcontacts

Alisa - If I already have QTS but no experience in UK (because I qualify as a European teacher) how can I get experience in UK?

Teaching consultant - You could register with your local authority or a supply agency to do supply teaching initially. Alternatively ask a local school if you could go in and observe teachers working in the classroom so you can become familiar with British schools. You can check out the curriculum on http://www.nc.uk.net which has links to many resources to help you.

jimzinhere - I'm interested in becoming a college or uni lecturer in music tech or performing arts. I was wondering what qualifications I may need to get started in this area of work?

Teaching consultant - We are specialising in school teaching where your skills would be welcomed. For specific further/higher education information try http://www/lifelonglearninguk.org

Salma - How can I enhance my application ? Getting into science at a secondary level. A psychology degree isn't regarded by some institutes as a science, and I am finding it difficult to get anywhere. I have applied for the booster class but that’s not sufficient for some. What more can I do?

Teaching consultant - Courses do very in the amount of subject knowledge they expect on application. Have you looked at enhancement courses, which are six months before starting a PGCE? They deepen and widen your subject knowledge ready for your work in secondary schools. Check out the science enhancement courses on http://www.teach.gov.uk/enhancement

Shodan - I am a University graduate and interested in the EBITT placement as I wish to be trained as a maths/science teacher and obtain a GTP by next year. Can you please advise on the process?

Teaching consultant - Your first port of call is your local EBITT(S). Each EBITT has its own application process and deadlines for application so you need to check these with them directly see http://www.tda.gov.uk/ebrcontacts

Qasim - can you tell me about enhancement courses please?

Teaching consultant - Enhancement courses are available in maths, physics and chemistry. They are six month funded full time courses for graduates which you complete just before starting a PGCE/SCITT or GTP route to QTS. They deepen and widen your subject knowledge ready for training to teach in secondary schools.

Lisa - Hi there I have been told that there is no deadline for applying for GTP. However it is very competitive, would I have to contact the primary school directly to see whether they are able to take me on this programme or are all state schools able to? Is it too late to apply now for GTP and PGCE?

Teaching consultant - Most state schools can take GTP candidates. Many GTP providers (EBITTs) have already passed their application deadline. It is still possible to apply for any PGCE courses which still have vacancies. You can check these on http://www.gttr.ac.uk

Sophia - Hi there, is it true that once you start teaching you can progress quite quickly and your pay can increase very quickly too? Does it depend on the school you go to as each school is different? If the fast track option has gone, what else is in place? Are schools very willing to offer you training once you are a teacher?

Teaching consultant - The speed of your progression in teaching is, in large part, down to you - how flexible you are in seeking school posts out to take on additional responsibilities which clearly demonstrate your skills in developing the teaching and learning in your school. You will be expected to be fully involved in your own continued professional development and your school will be an active partner in this.

Steve - Hi there, I’ve just started on the trail to becoming a teacher. I have a combined studies degree and am unsure whether I would qualify to do a PGDE/PGCE course in physics with only 2.5 years worth of physics modules. How can I find out how many SCOTCAT points I have for the subject physics?

Teaching consultant - Physics/science courses will be very pleased to hear from you as you have physics in your degree so do contact your chosen ones now to discuss your background. You can find their details on http://www.gttr.ac.uk

Steve - how do I find out how many SCOTCAT points my degree is worth so that I can consider a PGCE?

Teaching consultant - Your chosen PGCE provider will be able to advise you on this.

Fortis - I have completed my masters in bioscience and am interested in teaching at the secondary level, but I am an international student, what are my options?

Teaching consultant - You can take a PGCE course, but as an international student would have to pay full fees for this and would not receive a bursary. A GTP programme would be possible subject to any visa/work permit requirements and you would need to convince a school to employ you as an unqualified teacher.

Qasim - how can I teach maths - I’ve got an A level in bio, chem. computing, and an IT degree?

Teaching consultant - Unpick your background to highlight all the maths content then approach your chosen course providers to see whether it is enough for them to consider you for their course. Some may say yes, others that you need to top up your knowledge before application. You also need to be sure why you want to teach maths which would ideally include some time spent in a school observing maths teachers.

Emma - I have a degree in theatre design and have worked freelance in film and TV for seven years, I now wish to get into teaching. I’m currently temping. I would like to teach art at secondary level. What routes are there for me, to gain the necessary qualifications and what funding is available? Where can I study? Or is OU the best way, as I still need to earn a wage?

Teaching consultant - The main route into secondary art teaching is the PGCE see http://www.gttr.ac.uk If you are a 'home' or an 'EU' student there is a £6,000 bursary for this. The GTP may be an option if you can find a school willing to employ you as an unqualified teacher and you can secure a training place with an EBITT see http://www.tda.gov.uk/ebr The OU do not currently offer art courses for secondary teaching.

Mike - I have been to see a head teacher and am now preparing to go into classrooms in a primary school and would like some info on real basics - ie what teacher is trying to achieve? teaching plans? how do kids learn and really basic stuff.

Teaching consultant - Getting into school, observing and talking to teachers is the best way to do this. Then reflect on what you have seen. You can check out the national curriculum on http://www.nc.uk.net

Salma - what other options are available other than the enhancement course because I really want to get into teaching this year!

Teaching consultant - Your chosen course providers are the people to talk to about this as they make the decision on whether they can accept you onto their course with your current subject knowledge. Ask them if there is self study you can undertake to prepare. Course providers do vary in their requirements so check out some others as they may take you more readily.

Qasim1 - If I studied an ICT PGCE am I able to teach another subject (once qualified) such as maths at a later date?

Teaching consultant - Yes, once you have your QTS you can teach other subjects if your school is happy you have the depth of subject knowledge required.

Lisa - Last question - To become a headteacher is it better to have a PGCE as it contains credit at M level and H level or does it not matter whether you have a PGCE or GTP?

Teaching consultant - Both PGCE and GTP are good routes into teaching as they give you QTS. Once in the classroom you will want to continue your professional development so a masters may be one way to do this. A PGCE with masters credits will give you a head start on this.

dawson - I am currently wanting a change of career and am interested in teaching, but I am not sure I have the correct qualifications for this, can you help?

Teaching consultant - All teachers are graduates so a degree needs to be in your plans. All trainees need maths and English GCSE grade c or above (or a recognised equivalent) plus science for primary. Good school observation experience is one of your first considerations as this will help you to decide if teaching is definitely the career for you and will also enhance any future application.

donato - Good afternoon, I am 39 years old and would like to teach history at secondary school level. I have a BA and MPhil but have been doing other things since University. Would the best route to entry be via a PGCE? Is there a problem with age in a subject that is not as in vogue as some others these days?

Teaching consultant - Career changers are welcomed in teaching regardless of subject. A one year fulltime PGCE is the main route into history teaching see http://www.gttr.ac.uk for details of those available.

Moneeba - how long will it take to complete a PGCE in maths for secondary teaching?

Teaching consultant - The majority of maths PGCE courses take one year although some are 18 months and two years for those needing to deepen and widen their subject knowledge of maths.

Sheena - I am aware that teaching experience is a must when applying for a PGCE. I have been working as a student mentor at my university for two years now, where I teach groups of 10 students throughout the duration of residential workshops and also have a year's experience teaching maths and science in a Saturday school. Is this sufficient work experience or should I arrange to shadow a classroom at a local school?

Teaching consultant - You have some great experience there which will help you reflect on students' learning and may be sufficient to secure a PGCE place although a few days in a secondary school will help you to identify the skills you will bring to school teaching and enhance your application significantly.

Rob - I want to apply for a PGCE for September and all the providers I wish to study with have places, but I only have a few days experience in a school. How do I stand when it comes to selection?

Teaching consultant - If your chosen providers still have vacancies at this time of the year they will welcome your application as you already have a few days experience in schools. Look at the application assistant http://www.teach.gov.uk/applicationassistant for help with making the most of your experience on your application.

Sheena - What are the benefits of having a Masters in Education? Is it a necessity for career progression?

Teaching consultant - A Masters is not currently necessary but should enhance your future career prospects as it will encourage you to unpick your teaching and the learning of your students. The learning of the students is the key issue in schools and so is the key to your career development.

Shodan - Is it true that I will not be qualified to receive a 'golden hello' on training as a maths/science teacher after obtaining a GTP via SCITT?

Teaching consultant - Teachers training through the GTP route are not eligible for golden hellos. They are for those trained through the SCITT and PGCE routes who receive the £9,000 bursary.

Moneeba - how much will it cost to complete the PGCE in terms of fees?

Teaching consultant - This depends on your eligibility. Home and EU students will pay around £3,145. Home students could take out a loan for this to be repaid once working in school; they may also be eligible for a non means tested grant of around £1,200. Overseas/international students will have to pay the full fees charged by their chosen course.

Lisa - does GTP not have any master points?

Teaching consultant - Currently some PGCE courses (the ones called postgraduate rather than professional) which have masters points. In the future GTP courses may also offer these. Check with your chosen EBITTs for the GTP to see if they have plans to do this.

Macca - I would like to know the best route into teaching, I am 20 this year and have 12 GCSEs all at A-C and 2 A levels @ E. My preferred age group is 7-14yrs and my subjects would be PE and Geography. I also help out in a middle school at present.

Teaching consultant - All teachers are graduates so a degree needs to be in your plans. A foundation degree can be studied alongside your work in school and would then need to be topped up to full degree level and a teacher training one year course added at the end to gain your QTS. Alternatively you could take a teaching degree which are mostly full time. See http://www.ucas.com for details.

Karen475 - hello, I'd like to know if I could be a teacher? I have a degree in fashion journalism, is this academic enough or would I need to take a whole new degree?

Teaching consultant - You are a graduate so another whole degree is unlikely to be necessary. You need to highlight all the relevant subject knowledge you have in your background to support the subject/age range you want to apply to teach.

Sheena - I am not quite sure how the work experience section of the PGCE application form differs from the personal statement. Surely the work experience will be mentioned in the personal statement? Could you please clarify the difference?

Teaching consultant - Your personal statement is your chance to write about why you want to teach and what you have to offer teaching your chosen subject/age range so some of your experiences will be referred to, where relevant, in this. See the online application assistant for help with this. Other less relevant experience will be mentioned in the work experience section.

brijesh- I have a teacher education degree from India and completed an MA in applied linguistics from Northumbria University. I teach in the UK. Can I work as an unqualified teacher? How can I find a job? Can I proceed my further studies in PGCE? How much are the fees for PGCE?

Teaching consultant - You may be eligible for the overseas trained teachers programme when you find an unqualified teachers post in school. Check out http://www.tda.gov.uk/ott for details of the scheme.