Join the 14,000 former teachers who rediscover the rewards of working with children by returning to the profession each year – that’s the message from the teacher training agency as it funds refresher courses across the country starting this September*.

The courses offer former teachers the chance to get up to date on the latest developments in education so they are ready to enjoy the challenges, creativity and interaction with children from their first day back in the classroom.

The numeracy and literacy strategies, the national curriculum and using information and communications technology (ICT) are among the topics covered on the course which also includes supported school placements, and guidance on applying for teaching jobs and career development opportunities.

While they attend the part time course, participants receive a bursary of £150 a week up to a total of £1,500 plus child care support of up to £150 per child per week.

Mary Doherty, Director of Teacher Supply and Recruitment at the TTA, said:

‘Teaching is continually evolving and attending a refresher course is an ideal way to refresh skills, boost confidence and prepare for a return to teaching.

‘Thousands of former teachers return to the profession every year, bringing a wealth of experience to schools. With improved pay and career opportunities, increased support from more teaching assistants and help with administrative tasks, there has never been a better time to return to teaching.’

Tony Cook, who manages the course at EM Direct, said:

‘Our courses are designed to enable teachers who have been out of the profession for a few years to return to the classroom confident they will have all they need to help every pupil fulfil their potential. 

‘Courses begin in September so contact us now on 01476 512780 or email s.taylor@emdirect.co.uk to obtain information and an application form.’

For more information on returner courses or on returning to teaching visit 'get into teaching' or contact the TTA’s Returning to Teach programme on 0845 6000 993.

Notes for editors

There are still places on courses starting this September at various locations including Bury St Edmunds, Lincoln, Northallerton, Barnsley, Beverley and Wakefield.

Participants on TTA-funded returners courses will receive a training bursary of up to £150 a week up to a maximum of £1,500.

Childcare support is also available worth £150 per week for every child up to the age of five years old and £70 per week for every child aged between five and 14 years, for a maximum of 12 weeks.

The returning to teach programme keeps former teachers up to date on developments in the profession, and provides information about jobs and training opportunities. For more information about Returning to Teach, including how to register on the scheme visit 'Get into teaching link'. 

The teacher training agency was established under the Education Act 1994. Its purpose is to raise standards by attracting able and committed people to teaching, and by improving the quality of training for teachers and the wider school workforce.

Media enquiries

TTA Press Office Tel: 020 7023 8080 / 8081

Out of hours: 0777 193 4629

email: pressoffice@teach-tta.gov.uk

General TTA enquiries: 0870 4960 123