Exploring a Career in Teaching: Insights from the Teaching Careers Panel
Are you considering a career in teaching? Whether you’re drawn to the idea of making a difference, enjoying a structured career path, or benefiting from strong professional support networks, there are many reasons to step into the world of education.
Our Careers Coach, Rachel Beauchamp, recently attended the Teaching Panel Event run by Lancaster University Careers service where experts from various training providers shared their insights on the journey into teaching. Here’s she learned:
Why Get Into Teaching?
Tracey from Get Into Teaching highlighted the numerous benefits of a teaching career, including:
- Competitive salary with quick increments
- Excellent pension benefits
- Career progression opportunities
- Strong support systems for early-career teachers
- Generous holidays and a potential for a great work-life balance in the right school
- A rewarding profession where every day is different
Financially, there are also strong bursaries and scholarships available for trainees, making the path into teaching more accessible.
How to Get Started
If you’re interested in teaching, Get Into Teaching offers free services and support, including:
- Arranging school experience
- Providing a personal advisor
- Helping you research training providers
- Assisting with the application process
- Guidance on writing a personal statement
While school experience isn’t compulsory, it’s highly recommended. You can gain experience by:
- Applying for school experience programs through the Get Into Teaching website
- Contacting local schools directly
- Exploring supply teaching or tutoring opportunities
- Participating in paid internships through Get Into Teaching
Routes Into Teaching
There are several routes into teaching, and all result in the same qualification. The key difference lies in the mode of delivery. Here are some of the options:
- PGCE (Postgraduate Certificate in Education): A university-led qualification with school placements.
- SCITT (School-Centred Initial Teacher Training): School-based training, often with a smaller cohort and more personalized support.
- Teach First: A two-year salaried program that places you in schools from day one, focusing on schools in challenging communities.
Student finance options are available to support teacher training across these routes.
Insights from Training Providers
Ripley SCITT
- Two placements: September–December & January–July.
- Placements sourced for you, ideally within a 20–45 minute commute.
- Emphasis on support, mentorship, and a family-like cohort.
- Taster days available for both primary and secondary teaching.
Teach First
- A two-year salaried program with a fully funded PGCE.
- Immediate classroom experience in schools that need strong teachers.
- Links to corporate partners (Amazon, PwC, Goldman Sachs).
- Leadership skills integrated into training.
- Taster programs available, including a fast-track option for 2026 entry.
Edge Hill University
- Offers primary, secondary, and Further Education (FE) courses.
- New primary courses in Special Educational Needs & Disabilities (SENDI) and Mental Health & Wellbeing for 2025 entry.
- PGCE includes 60 master’s level credits; PG Diploma & Teaching (FE) includes 120 level 7 credits.
- Structure: Four weeks at university, followed by block placements.
- Multiple levels of support: personal tutor, school mentor, link tutor, and lead mentor.
National Institute of Teaching
- Strong emphasis on research-driven teaching methods.
- Collaborates with Star Academies to enhance training.
- Early classroom immersion: Four days in school, one day on campus.
- Tutors available throughout the training period.
Is It Ever Too Late to Start?
A common question from attendees was whether it’s okay to start teacher training later in life. The panellists reassured prospective teachers that entering the profession after gaining life experience can be highly beneficial. Schools value diverse backgrounds, and mature trainees often bring unique skills and perspectives to the classroom.
Summary
The path into teaching is flexible, well-supported, and full of opportunities for personal and professional growth. Whether you opt for a traditional PGCE, school-led SCITT training, or the Teach First leadership route, there’s an option that can suit your aspirations and circumstances.
If you’re considering a career in teaching, start by exploring school experience opportunities and researching training providers. The right teaching path for you is out there—take the first step today!