What is the Transition to Teach Programme?
The programme has been designed with employers to promote a new career in teaching to employees who are considering a mid to late career change. The programme is designed to help people who want to change their career to teach maths, science or information and communication technology (ICT) in state secondary schools in England. The programme targets employees with relevant degrees in science, technology, engineering, maths or a related subject, who can share their knowledge and experience, and inspire the next generation.
The benefits for employers
Offering talented staff the opportunity to do something valuable when they leave enhances an employer’s reputation – and engaging with key social issues such as the future supply of skilled scientists, mathematicians and engineering and technology professionals can reinforce corporate citizenship credentials. The TDA can work with companies to publicise their involvement through extensive communication programmes.
Employers can participate for free and receive information, marketing materials and support for promoting the programme to employees. Staff on the programme will receive support and guidance. Having former employees in the classroom will enable organisations to develop or consolidate links with schools – showing a clear commitment to corporate responsibility.
Help to build the skilled workforce of the future
Increasing the number of teachers with expertise in science, technology, engineering and maths will help address workplace skills shortages in years to come. Helping professionals to become teachers brings expertise into the classroom and helps young people bridge the gap between theory and practice.
Many organisations have signed up to support the programme by promoting it to their staff and allowing reasonable time off for selected, eligible employees to investigate the opportunity. For more information on some of these employers and the kind of support they are offering, visit the employer case studies pages of the TDA website.
Benefits for individuals
Teaching opens up a wealth of new experiences that individuals aren’t exposed to in business, and learning news skills in a new environment can be challenging and exciting. It also offers great opportunities for personal and career development. The variety of state school settings provides a range of different teaching experiences and the opportunity to interact and build a rapport with pupils. There are Teachers' stories on the TDA website discussing the positive experiences of individuals who have already changed their career and made the transition to teaching.
Utilising existing skills and knowledge
Subject knowledge and career experience in these key areas are in demand. Participants will get the opportunity to utilise their skills and provide the vital link between teaching theory and practically applying knowledge.
Support and advice
Changing career is a big decision and a comprehensive advice and guidance service is available to help participants throughout the process. This includes advice on:
- suitability for teaching
- training options
- arranging subject knowledge refresher courses or classroom experience
- advice on progression in teaching
- information on funding to train and salary levels as a teacher
Further information on the programme can be found on the Transition to Teaching pages of the TDA website.
View more tdaNews for July 2008
