Teacher

How to become a teacher in the UK

The most common route is a 1-year PGCE following an undergraduate degree, leading to Qualified Teacher Status (QTS). Alternatives include the salaried School Direct route, the Teach First leadership programme (5 6 figure salaries during training in priority schools), and undergraduate BEd degrees. All routes lead to QTS, then the 2-year Early Career Teacher (ECT) induction in your first post.

1. Look up Teacher roles on LinkedIn or Indeed and read 5 real job ads
2. Talk to someone already working as a Teacher - even a 15 minute call helps
3. Find one beginner course or qualification used by people in this role
4. Build one small piece of evidence you've explored this (project, shadowing, short course)
5. Apply to one entry level role or related opportunity within the next month

Do you need qualifications to be a teacher?

Qualifications for teacher work: Yes + PGCE or equivalent. The exact requirements depend on the employer and specialism, so check job adverts in your target area before committing to a long study route.

What does a teacher do day-to-day?

Plan and deliver lessons, mark work, and help young people develop.

• Communication
• Patience
• Subject knowledge
• Classroom management

Is teacher a good career?

It can be incredibly rewarding, but it's not for everyone. It offers a strong ongoing demand, structured collaboration, and a steady weekly rhythm.

Skills you'll need as a teacher

• Communication
• Subject knowledge
• Classroom management

How long it takes to get started

Realistically, most people get their first paid teacher role within 1 4 years. It's not a quick path, but it's well-trodden - the people who succeed treat it as a project, not a wait.

Specialisations within Teacher Primary Teacher

Teach all subjects to children aged 5 11. Entry route: PGCE Primary or undergraduate degree with QTS.

Secondary Teacher

Teach a specialist subject to ages . Entry route: Subject degree + PGCE.

SEN Teacher

Teach pupils with special educational needs. Entry route: QTS + SEN training.

Explore related paths

See how teacher fits into wider career groups - or read deeper on the topics most relevant to you.

Related careers in Education, Science and Research

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