Being a teacher is a noble and rewarding career path, and in England, the journey to becoming an educator is well-structured and supported. Whether you are a recent graduate, a career changer, or someone passionate about making a difference in young lives, this guide will walk you through the essential steps to become a qualified teacher in England.
Step 1: Understand the Requirements
Before diving into the process, it is crucial to understand the basic requirements for becoming a teacher in England. Generally, you will need:
- A relevant undergraduate degree: For primary teaching, this could be a degree in education or a subject relevant to what you want to teach. For secondary teaching, a degree in the subject you wish to teach is typically required. Some universities offer combined degrees that include both subject knowledge and pedagogical training.
- GCSEs in English, Maths, and Science: Those are mandatory for primary teaching and often required for secondary teaching as well. If you don’t already have these qualifications, there are options to take equivalency tests.
- Passing the Professional Skills Tests: Aspiring teachers must pass numeracy and literacy skills tests to demonstrate competency in these areas. These tests assess your ability to apply numeracy and literacy skills in real-life teaching scenarios.
- For non-UK citizens: You may be asked to provide proof of English proficiency. TOEIC, IELTS, TOEFL and Cambridge English are the most popular English proficiency tests for work and study purposes.
Step 2: Choose Your Route
In England, there are several routes to gaining Qualified Teacher Status (QTS):
- University-led routes: These include undergraduate and postgraduate courses such as Bachelor of Education (BEd) or Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE). These routes often involve a combination of academic study and practical teaching experience. University-led programs typically provide a comprehensive understanding of educational theory and research, along with opportunities for hands-on teaching practice. This is the route I followed.
- School-led routes: School Direct and Teach First are examples of school-led training programs where you will learn on the job while being based in a school. These routes offer a more hands-on approach to teacher training, allowing you to immerse yourself in the school environment from the outset. School-led programs often provide a salary while you train and may lead to a guaranteed teaching position upon completion.
- Assessment-only route: This route is for experienced teachers who already have significant teaching experience but lack formal qualifications. It involves a portfolio-based assessment to demonstrate your teaching skills and knowledge. This route is ideal for career changers or overseas-trained teachers looking to gain QTS without undergoing a full training program.
Step 3: Apply for Training
Once you have chosen your preferred route, you will need to apply for teacher training programs through UCAS Teacher Training or directly to schools offering school-led routes. Be sure to check application deadlines and requirements for each program. The application process typically involves submitting a personal statement outlining your motivations for becoming a teacher, as well as details of your academic qualifications and relevant experience.
Step 4: Gain Experience
If you are pursuing a university-led route, you will likely have placements in schools where you will gain practical teaching experience under the guidance of experienced mentors. These placements may be in a variety of educational settings, allowing you to develop your teaching skills across different age groups and subjects. Usually, your initial school placement will span from late September through December, followed by your second placement commencing from January and continuing until June.
For school-led routes, you will be based in a school from the start, gaining hands-on experience in the classroom. This immersive experience provides valuable insights into the day-to-day realities of teaching and allows you to build relationships with students and colleagues.
Step 5: Complete Training and Assessment
Throughout your training, you will be assessed on your teaching practice, subject knowledge, and professional conduct. This may include written assignments, observations of your teaching, and assessments of your ability to meet the Teachers’ Standards. University-led programs typically include a combination of academic study and practical teaching experience, with assessments designed to evaluate your progress against established criteria. School-led routes may involve regular assessments by school mentors and external assessors to ensure you are meeting the required standards of teaching proficiency. The assessment process is designed to support your development as a teacher and ensure you are fully prepared to take on the responsibilities of the role.
Step 6: Gain Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)
Upon successful completion of your training and assessments, you will be awarded QTS, which is necessary to teach in maintained schools and most academies in England. This recognition signifies that you have met the professional standards required to be an effective teacher and are qualified to work in the education sector. With QTS, you will have the opportunity to apply for teaching positions and embark on a fulfilling career in education.
Step 7: Continuing Professional Development (CPD)
Becoming a qualified teacher is just the beginning. To thrive in your career, ongoing professional development is essential. This may include further qualifications, attending workshops and conferences, or participating in mentorship programs. CPD opportunities are designed to support your growth as a teacher and keep you updated on the latest developments in education. By investing in your professional development, you can enhance your teaching practice, advance your career prospects, and make a lasting impact on the lives of your students.
Becoming a teacher in England is a fulfilling journey that requires dedication, passion, and a commitment to lifelong learning. By understanding the requirements, choosing the right training route, and gaining practical experience, you can embark on a rewarding career shaping the future generation. Whether you are drawn to primary or secondary education, there is a pathway for you to make a positive impact as an educator in England. With the support of training programs, mentorship, and ongoing professional development opportunities, you can build the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in the dynamic and rewarding field of teaching.
The Early Career Teacher Years in England: A Guide to Success
The Early Career Framework
The Early Career Years for teachers in England represent a critical phase of professional development, where Early Career Teachers (ECTs) transition from student to educator. At the heart of this transition is the Early Career Framework (ECF), a structured framework introduced in England in September 2021 that aims at providing comprehensive support and development for ECTs. It outlines a two-year induction period for ECTs and includes a range of support mechanisms designed to enhance teaching practice and improve retention rates within the profession. The ECF encompasses various elements such as mentorship, reduced timetables, structured training, and formative assessment, all aimed at supporting the professional growth of ECTs.
On the other hand, the ECT Induction Period specifically refers to the initial period of induction and support provided to ECTs as they begin their teaching careers. It typically spans a minimum of two years and includes the implementation of the Early Career Framework components.
Understanding the ECT Induction Period
The Induction Period spans a minimum of two years and provides Early Career Teachers with the necessary support, guidance, and professional development opportunities to thrive in their roles, while following the overarching structure and components of support for ECTs outlined by the ECF. The period begins immediately after the completion of initial teacher training (ITT) and aims to bridge the gap between theory and practice, ensuring that ECTs are well-equipped to meet the demands of the classroom.
Key Features of the ECF
The Early Career Framework (ECF) offers several benefits for early career teachers in England:
- Structured Support: The ECF provides a structured framework for ECTs, outlining a clear pathway for their professional development. This structured support helps new teachers navigate the complexities of their roles and ensures they have access to the resources and guidance needed to succeed.
- Mentorship: One of the key components of the ECF is mentorship, where ECTs are paired with experienced mentors who provide guidance, support, and feedback. This mentorship helps new teachers build confidence, develop their teaching skills, and navigate the challenges of the profession.
- Reduced Timetable: The ECF includes provisions for a reduced timetable for ECTs (10% in the first year, 5% in the second), allowing them additional time for professional development, reflection, and collaboration. This reduced workload helps to alleviate some of the pressures associated with the transition into teaching and supports the overall well-being of early career teachers.
- Structured Training: ECTs participate in a structured training program as part of the ECF, covering key areas such as pedagogy, behaviour management, and assessment. This training is delivered through a combination of face-to-face workshops, online resources, and school-based activities, providing early career teachers with a solid foundation of knowledge and skills.
- Formative Assessment: Throughout the induction period, ECTs undergo regular assessments to monitor their progress and identify areas for development. These assessments are conducted in collaboration with mentors and are designed to support the ongoing growth and professional learning of ECTs.
- Support Networks: The ECF encourages early career teachers to participate in support networks and communities of practice, where they can connect with fellow teachers, share experiences, and access additional resources and support. These networks provide a valuable source of encouragement and camaraderie during the early stages of a teaching career.
Overall, the Early Career Framework offers comprehensive support and guidance for Early Career Teachers, helping them to build confidence, develop their skills, and thrive in their roles. By investing in the professional growth and well-being of ECTs, the ECF contributes to the overall quality and effectiveness of teaching in England.
Tips for Early Career Teachers
If you are currently an ECT or starting your induction period soon, here’s 5 essential tips to help you thrive in your role and make a positive impact on their students’ lives:
- Embrace Professional Learning: Take advantage of the training and development opportunities provided through the ECF, and seek out additional resources to enhance your teaching practice.
- Build Relationships: Cultivate positive relationships with colleagues, students, and parents, and don’t hesitate to reach out for support when needed.
- Prioritise Wellbeing: Balance your workload with self-care activities, and prioritise your mental and physical wellbeing to avoid burnout. This is personally an element I am still working on, as I have always tended to prioritise studies and work over my mental health and wellbeing.
- Reflect and Adapt: Take time to reflect on your teaching practice, seek feedback from mentors and colleagues, and be willing to adapt and refine your approach based on what works best for your students.
- Stay Resilient: Teaching can be challenging, but remember that every setback is an opportunity for growth. Stay resilient in the face of adversity, and don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it. Don’t suffer in silence; this is a piece of advice I was given on my first day in my current school. Everyone, including experienced teachers, has both good and bad lessons, amazing and challenging groups. It is perfectly fine to share your frustrations with your colleagues, who are always here to support you.
The ECT years are a formative period for teachers in England, characterised by learning, growth, and the development of essential skills and competencies. With the support of the Early Career Framework and a commitment to ongoing professional learning, ECTs can navigate the challenges of their first years in the classroom with confidence and emerge as skilled and effective educators. By embracing mentorship, prioritising wellbeing, and staying resilient in the face of adversity, ECTs can lay the foundation for a successful and rewarding career in education.
Remember that perfection or mastery of all the Teachers’ Standards in your first year isn’t realistic; different teachers excel in different areas, such as planning or behaviour management. The induction period is genuinely tough but is designed for skill development, so don’t be discouraged by initial challenges. Reach out to your mentor or induction tutor for guidance, seek feedback, and embrace the process. This approach is key to meeting the Teachers’ Standards, being on track and progressing successfully through your induction period.
