It takes a certain type of person to become a teacher. You need to have a love for children and a passion for the subject you are teaching. It is important that you research what it really entails to work in the role of a teacher. There are many duties that you will hold as a teacher.
Below are six (of many) duties you can expect to undertake as a teacher.
1) Planning and preparing lessons
2) Assessing and reporting on pupil development
3) Communicating with the parents of pupils
4) Taking responsibility for the progress of pupils
5) Participating in meetings arranged for any of the purposes described above.
6) Organising the classroom and learning resources, and creating displays which will encourage a positive learning environment for pupils.
Personal Qualities
There are a number of personal qualities needed by teachers. It is important that as a teacher you possess excellent interpersonal skills to enable you to communicate at all levels whether it be with other colleagues, pupils, or parent etc. It is important as a teacher to be patient, trustworthy, respectful and enthusiastic. Other qualities you will need include being adaptable, creative, engaging, dedicated, organised, resilient, just to name a few!
Education/ Qualifications
To begin teacher training you will be required to hold GCSE grade C or above in Maths, English, and a Science subject if you want to teach at primary or Key Stages 2/3 (up to 14 years of age). You will also be required to undertake school visits/placements, which involve observing teachers as they deliver lessons. To become a teacher you will need a degree before you will be able to gain Qualified Teacher Status (QTS). Your degree should relate to the subject you want to teach.
Career prospects
There are a range of career paths you may wish to follow. You may decide you would like to teach at primary, secondary or higher education. It is important that you research what teaching really entails before following a career in this industry.
So if you think you have the drive and enthusiasm needed to be a great teacher, why not follow this challenging yet highly rewarding career path!
Nick Cooper
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