CLASSROOM CAREERS 2: TEACHER

Following on from our article last month on becoming a teaching assistant, here’s our next in the series: becoming a teacher. If you’re passionate about a subject, value job stability, and are driven to inspire future generations, teaching may suit you.

Across the Liverpool City Region and the wider UK, schools are actively looking for teachers. Alongside strong job security, teaching offers great holidays and the chance to directly shape young people’s futures. Here are answers to some of the most common questions about getting started on a career in teaching.

What is Qualified Teacher Status (QTS), and do I need it?

To teach in state-funded schools in England, you’ll need Qualified Teacher Status (QTS). This applies to primary, secondary, and special schools, as well as pupil referral units (PRUs).

You’ll usually need a degree (or be working towards one) to gain QTS. While academies and free schools may hire teachers without QTS, many still prefer candidates who have this qualification.

What qualifications do I need to become a teacher?

You’ll need at least a grade 4 (C) in GCSE English and Maths (or an equivalent qualification) before you can begin teacher training.

Most people complete a degree first and then go on to teacher training, often through a PGCE (postgraduate certificate in education) that includes QTS. There are also other routes available, including degree apprenticeships, depending on your circumstances.

What is ITT?

ITT (Initial Teacher Training) is a common route into teaching. Some local schools work with training providers to offer school-based ITT programmes.

These programmes give you hands-on experience in the classroom while you train, and in some cases, you may earn a salary. Liverpool Hope University is one of the providers offering this type of training leading to QTS.

Is there any financial help available?

Funding varies depending on your subject and eligibility, so it’s worth researching your options carefully.

You may be eligible for additional support if you meet certain criteria – for example, as a younger applicant with an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP). Some universities also offer their own scholarships.

For certain subjects, particularly those in STEM, the government offers tax-free bursaries:

• £29,000: Chemistry, Computing, Mathematics, Physics
• £20,000: Languages (including ancient languages), Design & Technology
• £5,000: Biology, Geography

Always check the latest eligibility criteria before applying.

What is a PGCE?

A PGCE (Postgraduate Certificate in Education) is a university-led course for graduates. It combines academic study with school placements and often includes QTS.

Courses are available in early years, primary, and secondary education. They can be demanding and frequently involve long hours, but they prepare you for all aspects of teaching, from lesson planning to supporting students’ development.

What if I don’t have a degree?

If you don’t have a degree, you can still work in schools as a teaching assistant or in other support roles.

There are also other pathways to gain QTS. If you have substantial experience teaching in a setting where QTS isn’t required, you may be able to qualify through the assessment-only route. In some cases, this can take as little as 12 days.

Can I specialise as a teacher?

Yes, and in many cases, you’ll be expected to.

In secondary schools, you typically teach a subject linked to your degree. In primary schools, you’ll cover multiple subjects but may specialise in an area such as PE, music, or maths.

You can also develop expertise in areas like special educational needs, including supporting students with dyslexia or dyscalculia.

What about career progression?

Once qualified and employed, teaching offers a range of progression opportunities.

You can take on additional responsibilities such as subject lead, head of year, or head of department.  These roles come with increased pay and leadership duties. You might also become a lead practitioner, helping to improve teaching across a school, or move into senior leadership positions such as assistant head, deputy head, or headteacher.

You will find pastoral roles focused on student wellbeing, such as head of house, in most schools. In general, the more responsibility you take on, the more you will earn.

What are the next steps for teacher training?

If you’re interested in becoming a teacher, it’s worth exploring your options in more detail.

Get Into Teaching provides help in understanding your options. You can chat with them by phone, email, SMS or WhatsApp.

Liverpool John Moores University offers PGCE courses in primary and secondary education. Liverpool Hope University provides PGCE courses in early years, primary, and secondary education. Edge Hill University, based in Ormskirk, offers PGCE programmes and works with over 1,000 partner schools.

Is teaching right for you?

Before applying, it’s worth asking yourself a few key questions:

• Do you enjoy working with young people?
• Are you patient and adaptable?
• Do you like explaining ideas clearly?
• Are you motivated by helping others succeed?

If the answer is yes to most of these, teaching could be a great fit.

Teaching is a rewarding and stable career with clear progression routes. If you’re passionate about your subject and want to make a difference, it’s well worth exploring the training options available to you.