Courses are aimed at getting former teachers up to date on the latest changes in schools and helping them polish up their teaching skills, so they can make a confident return to class.   Financial support is on offer with participants entitled to a training bursary of  £150 a week, plus support with childcare costs.

More than 12,000 people return to teaching every year in addition to the record 41,000 currently training to teach. The same number are needed to return this year to meet the staffing requirements of schools.  

Returners courses include:

• an update on topics such as learning and assessment, special educational needs, classroom management and the latest curriculum developments;
• a supported school placement to help refresh practical teaching skills and rebuild classroom confidence; and
• personal advice on applications and interview skills to help participants secure a teaching job.

Mary Doherty, Director of Teachers’ Programme at the TTA said:

'The teaching profession offers people the flexibility and support to easily step back on the career ladder after taking a break. The fact that 12,000 people return to teaching each year shows that few other professions offer the same stimulation, challenge and real enjoyment that comes from working with young people.

'Former teachers considering their career options will be pleasantly surprised by the way schools have changed and what teaching can now offer. With improved pay and career opportunities, increased support from more teaching assistants and help with administrative tasks, now is the time to return to teaching.'

Returners courses are being run at 37 centres across the country and are of 8 to 12 weeks in duration, full or part-time. To find a place on a course near to you call 0845 6000 993 or visit www.teach.gov.uk/returning.

Notes for editors

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 www.teach.gov.uk/returning.

More than 41,000 people are beginning teacher training this year - the highest number since 1975.

The Teacher Training Agency was established under the Education Act 1994. Its purpose is to raise children's standards of achievement and promote their well-being by improving the training and development of the whole school workforce.                           

Media enquiries

TTA Press Office Tel: 020 7023 8080 / 8081

Out of hours: 0777 193 4629

email: pressoffice@teach-tta.gov.uk

Teaching enquiries

People interested in becoming a teacher should visit www.teach.gov.uk, or contact the Teaching Information Line (tel: 0845 6000 991 – 992 for Welsh speakers).

General TTA enquiries: 0870 4960 123