Finish your education
A bachelor’s degree in education or a similar major is required to become a teacher. There are schools that provide specialized degree programs, such as degrees that are tailored to the grade level or subject you intend to teach. It’s important to note that some school districts may accept qualified candidates with a degree that is related to the subject they want to teach. For instance, obtaining an English degree to instruct an English class.
Earn your certification
Each state has specific certification or license requirements for people to complete before they can become teachers. and they may differ for individuals who obtained degrees in fields other than education. Passing three Praxis exams is required for many qualification requirements.
Teacher Job Options
You have the option to specialize in special education, early childhood education, or secondary education. It’s worth considering obtaining a dual degree in a subject like history, science, or math, as well as secondary education. If you want to be a teacher but don’t want to teach in a traditional classroom, there are alternatives available. Teaching online, in a residential facility, or as part of literacy or other education-related non-profit programs is a possibility for you. To teach at the college and university level, it is typically necessary to have a master’s degree. Regardless of your teaching path, you are certain to make a significant and lasting impact on the lives of others!
Classroom teacher to senior leadership roles
For subject specialists who want to take the lead in shaping curriculum delivery, becoming a Head of Department is an excellent step. This role allows you to manage subject teachers, develop schemes of work, and ensure that pupils excel in your subject area. When moving into senior management, it’s common to take on the role of an Assistant or Deputy Headteacher. Leading initiatives across key stages, improving teaching standards, or overseeing pastoral care are typical roles for these roles. In this situation, leadership skills are a must, and additional qualifications such as the National Professional Qualification for Senior Leadership (NPQSL) can give a significant advantage. For those who aspire to lead a school, the role of headteacher offers a significant leap in responsibility. Headteachers are responsible for overseeing everything from academic performance to financial planning, and they act as the face of the school to the wider community. Teaching career advice often emphasizes the importance of gaining experience in various leadership roles before making this leap.
Classroom Leadership
It’s possible to advance your teaching career without neglecting the chance to work with students directly. While still in the classroom, there are a few roles that provide opportunities for career advancement.
Managing Multi-Academy Trusts (MATs)
If you have a lot of experience as a headteacher, you might want to consider becoming an executive headteacher in a multi-academy trust (MAT). The leadership and performance of multiple schools within the MAT are overseen by executive headteachers. Becoming the CEO of a MAT is the pinnacle of career progression for those with a strong background in school leadership and education management. The trust’s strategic direction is established, budgets are managed, and high educational standards are ensured across all schools in the trust.
Evaluate your strengths and preferences
To find teaching jobs, it’s important to have a clear understanding of your interests and abilities. Evaluate your personality, values, and motivations. What kinds of subjects, topics, and activities do you enjoy? What type of learners do you want to collaborate with? Which environment do you thrive in? What kind of challenges do you seek? Self-assessment tools, such as online quizzes, surveys, or tests, can aid you in identifying your strengths and preferences. You can also seek feedback from your peers, mentors, or supervisors.
Acquire relevant experience and education
To qualify for your desired teaching role and setting, you must gain relevant experience and education after narrowing down your options. Volunteering, tutoring, mentoring, or working as a teacher assistant or substitute teacher are all ways to gain experience. You can also join professional associations, networks, or communities to learn from other teachers and receive advice. To pursue your chosen teaching career, you must complete the appropriate education and training. Your teaching level and location may require a bachelor’s degree, a master’s degree, a teaching certificate, a license, or a credential. To demonstrate your knowledge and skills, you may also have to pass exams or tests.
Ask for guidance and support
It’s not necessary for you to figure out your teaching career path alone. Various sources, such as career counselors, mentors, coaches, or teachers, can provide you with guidance and support. Assessing your options, identifying goals, planning your steps, and overcoming challenges can be done by them. You have the option to communicate with your friends, family, or peers who can provide you with emotional support, encouragement, and feedback. It’s important to remember that choosing a teaching career path is not a one-time decision, but a continual process that may change over time. As a teacher, you can always revisit your choices, explore new possibilities, and modify your plans.