Ready to put down tools and teach?
Have you ever toiled with the prospect of becoming a teacher? Do you need a break from the tools? Are you passionate about passing your knowledge to younger generations? If the answer is YES, it could be time to consider the various teaching options available to people like you in the trade.
Don't have any qualifications… That's ok, and there are still opportunities.
There are many reasons why more and more tradespeople look to teach for their next career move. Many want to supplement their income from their main businesses, retire from the trade but are not ready for retirement, or have just finished a Masters in Engineering or other STEM-related subjects and not looking to get into hands-on work.
There is a severe shortage of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) teachers in the UK. Pre-COVID, the Department of Education (DfE) reported that only 85% of teacher roles were filled in secondary.
In 2021, the IET's report revealed an estimated shortfall of over 173,000 workers in the STEM sector, with an average of 10 unfilled roles per business in the UK. The IET's latest 'Skills Survey' (based on research conducted by YouGov) identifies that almost half (49%) of engineering businesses are experiencing difficulties in the skills available when recruiting. (IET.org). If you were looking to get into teaching, now would be a perfect time.
What qualifications do I need to become a secondary school teacher?
There are several requirements you need to meet before entering the profession and depending on your qualifications which route you take.
Already have a degree, you will need the following:
A degree (or equivalent) of 2:2 or above.
If you completed a bachelor's degree but not a specific education program, you could opt to complete training to earn your postgraduate certificate in education (PGCE).
At least a GCSE grade C/4 in English and maths. Some training providers may accept equivalency tests, but you'll need to check with the individual provider.
Undergone criminal records check through the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS).
Don't have a degree, no problem.
Experience goes a long way. Many further education colleges take tradespeople on without the necessary teaching qualifications. Suppose you are passionate about passing on your knowledge to younger generations and enjoy working with adolescents. In that case, your next move could be to join a college as a technician to work alongside a lecturer. We have seen experienced technicians become lecturers at the same college. All you need is the various DBS and vetting checks.
How much could I earn?
The average starting salary for a full-time teacher is £28k and for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) related subjects in specific areas of the country, an extra £9k incentives (spread over three years).
Skills needed for the role
Communication skills:
Interpersonal skills Technical skill and subject knowledge
Good Time management / Organisational skills
Interested and wondering what to do next? Give us a call and we can look for a role for you. Call us today on 0333 0326 333.