If you’re searching for a rewarding job where you can make a difference in the lives of others, teaching in the UK could be the perfect fit. With a robust education system and a rising demand for instructors, the United Kingdom provides an enormous number of possibilities for those interested in a career in education.
Not only is teaching a rewarding job in the United Kingdom, but it also has several perks, such as fair pay, generous vacation time, and chances for growth as well. So, what are you waiting for? Learn how to become a successful teacher in the UK now!
How to Become a Teacher in the UK
Becoming a teacher in the UK requires a specific set of qualifications and experience. Thus, in this section, we’ve broken down the essential steps you need to take to become a qualified teacher in the UK.
Step 1. Earn an Undergraduate Education or Teaching Degree
The first step to achieving your dream is to complete an undergraduate degree in education or a similar field.
Studying Education at UK universities such as the University of Birmingham or the University of Manchester will equip you with the knowledge and skills you need to succeed as a teacher. You’ll learn about concepts like education theory and practice, child development, and teaching methodologies. By the end of the program, you’ll be ready to take the next step toward becoming a qualified teacher.
Moreover, to ensure your degree is recognized by the Department for Education (DfE), make sure to choose a program that leads to Qualified Teacher Status (QTS). This qualification is mandatory if you want to teach in state-funded schools in England and Wales.
Step 2. Complete a Postgraduate Teacher Training Program
After obtaining your degree in Education or a related field, the next step to becoming a teacher in the UK is to register yourself for a postgraduate teacher training program, such as a PGCE or School Direct, which is offered by several renowned UK universities.
These programs will equip you with the experience qualified teachers need. During your training, you’ll gain valuable classroom experience, attend workshops to develop your teaching skills and knowledge, and be assigned a mentor who will guide you through the overall process.
Once you’ve completed your postgraduate training and met the required standards, you’ll be a step closer to Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) which serves as the foundation of your teaching career.
Step 3. Take and Pass the Professional Skills Tests to Gain QTS
As an aspiring teacher in the UK, you must pass the professional skills tests in numeracy and literacy to earn your Qualified Teacher Status (QTS). These tests are designed to assess your ability to teach and communicate to the future generations of the United Kingdom.
You can take the tests at various test centers across the UK, and you will need to book them in advance. They consist of multiple-choice questions and are timed, so it’s important to prepare thoroughly beforehand. Your teacher training program should provide you with support and resources to help you prepare for the tests, but you can also find additional practice materials online.
Step 4. Obtain a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) Check
Earning your QTS does not mean you can start working immediately. Before you can start officially teaching in the UK, you will need to undergo a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. This is a criminal record check that will assess whether you have any convictions, cautions, reprimands, or warnings that may make you unsuitable to work with children.
You can apply for a DBS check through a registered body or your potential employer may assist you with the process. Once you have obtained your DBS check and it is clear, you will be ready to start teaching in the UK.
Step 5. Apply for Teaching Positions and Complete a Probationary Period
With your QTS and DBS check, you are ready to start applying for teaching positions in the UK. Many schools advertise vacancies online, but you can also search for job openings on government websites or recruitment agencies.
You must have your CV, cover letter, and evidence of your teaching qualifications when you apply for a teaching job.
If you are selected for a position, you will typically be required to complete a probationary period of up to one year. During this time, you will receive additional training and support to help you develop your teaching skills and establish yourself as a competent and effective teacher.
Step 6. Continue Professional Development
Even if you are already working as a teacher in the UK, it is important to continue your professional development by attending training courses and conferences. This will help you stay up to date with the latest teaching methods and techniques, and enhance your skills and knowledge as an educator. Some professional development opportunities include workshops, online courses, and mentoring programs.
Furthermore, by continuing your professional development, you can ensure that you are providing the best possible education for your students. Advancing your career as a teacher in the UK is also easier if your skills and knowledge are up to date, as they open up many future opportunities for you.
Becoming a teacher in the UK requires a certain level of education, training, and experience. However, the rewards of this profession are numerous – from the opportunity to make a positive impact on young minds to the chance to continuously develop your skills and knowledge.
FAQs: How to Become a Teacher in the UK
Can a Foreigner Become a Teacher in the United Kingdom?
The answer is a resounding “yes”! But where do you start? To become a teacher in the United Kingdom, you’ll need a degree or equivalent qualification, strong English language skills, and the ability to pass professional skills and training tests.
While the journey might seem challenging, the rewards of a teaching career are immeasurable with the chance to inspire the next generation. With a passion for education and a willingness to work hard, international students can achieve their teaching goals and their place in the professional industry in the UK.
By following the steps in this article, you can establish a fulfilling and successful career as a teacher in the UK. So if you have the passion and drive to teach, go ahead and embark on your journey toward becoming a teacher in this wonderful country.
We hope this article has helped start your journey as a teacher in the UK. If you want to know about life and universities in the UK, check our Study in the UK Guide and this article on more Available Programs for International Students.
About the Author: Hyun Lee
