Everyone recognises a good teacher. What marks them out is their ability to make a positive difference in the lives of their pupils. As a profession, it can be demanding and occasionally frustrating, but it can also be amazingly satisfying. The rewards are impressive, too. You'll learn new skills and broaden your experience in a job that's different every day. The
rates of pay are good and, if you have the right skills, the potential for career development is enormous.
Routes to Teaching: 
To pursue a career in teaching, you must first gain Qualified Teacher Status (QTS). There are a wide range of routes to gain QTS which suit both young graduates and mature entrants. If you are training within the UK, the main route is through obtaining a Bachelor of Education degree a BEd (normally four years) or through obtaining a bachelor's degree and then a post-graduate Certificate in Education a PGCE (normally one year).
Graduate & Registered Teacher Programme:
The Graduate and Registered Teacher Programmes (GRTP) are alternative employment-based routes into teaching. They are mainly intended for people who, for various reasons, may not be able to train by a conventional route.
Both programmes involve working in a school while training for QTS over a one to two year period. The Training & Development Agency (TDA) pays a grant to cover the cost of your training and may also pay the school a contribution towards your salary of up to £13,000 per year. Entry to the GTP is highly competitive with places going to the best applications in priority areas.
The programmes are particularly successful for people who already work in a school in another capacity and where the school is supportive of the application. Experience, which would be helpful if you want to train through the GTRP routes, includes:
- Working with children of all ages in a variety of capacities e.g. nurse, play scheme assistant, playgroup leader, summer school assistant.
- Working in a school in a support capacity e.g. technician, learning support assistant, parent helper, school governor, language assistant, secretary.
- Working with your subject in a different capacity e.g. interpreter, engineer, designer, economist, scientist, sports trainer, coach.
- Teaching in Further or Higher Education.
It's not a route that's right for everyone - you must be aged at least 24 and already have obtained a degree for the Graduate Teacher Programme. For all your questions answered call the Training & Development Agency GRTP advice line on: 01245 45 44 44
You should explore all possibilities before deciding which one best suits you. For general information about all routes into teaching consult the Training & Development Agency (Tel: 0845 6000 991)
Financial Support:
For more information and to apply for financial support please contact the helpline on 08456 077 577 or visit www.studentfinancedirect.co.uk
Are you an Overseas Trained Teacher (OTT)?
The OTT section of the Training & Development Agency website will provide you with more information about teaching in England or you can contact the OTT advice line on: 01245 45 43 21
Last Modified:
31/10/2008 09:58:36
Back to top