You can train to become a teacher while achieving a bachelor's degree in education, arts or science. The content you are taught is based on what university or college you attend. The entry requirements differ depending on the courses you take. However, you will need a minimum of two A-levels or equivalent requirements. You must also achieve a C or better in GCSE English, mathematics and science. The minimum science grade is only required if you desire to teach children ages seven to fourteen.
This degree usually takes three to four years to complete if you attend full-time and six to eight years if you attend part-time.
There are two ways to achieve post-graduate certification. The first way is to attend classes geared toward education. The classes assume you have prior knowledge in your subject matter. However, you may take additional subject-knowledge-enhancing classes. The education classes and subject-matter classes are available at universities and colleges through the UK. Flexible distance learning courses are also available. The second way to achieve certification allows you to teach in the classroom and obtain your certification and will be designed and delivered to you by neighboring schools and colleges.
The qualifications for both methods require that you have a UK undergraduate or equivalent degree. You will need a C in GCSE English, math and science if you desire to teach children ages 7 to 14. Otherwise, you will only need a C in English and math. This method assumes you have a good understanding of the subject you plan to teach, usually requiring a degree in this subject matter before you begin training.
You can train and qualify as a teacher while working in a school through employment-based certification. This format allows you to earn a salary while obtaining qualified teacher status. There are two methods to achieve this status.
The first method requires you to have two years of higher education, which is the equivalent of 240 credit accumulation points. In addition to these points, you will also need GCSE grade C or above in mathematics, English and science if you wish to teach children ages 7 to 14. Otherwise, you need only have a grade C or above in math or English.
The second method places individuals in challenging secondary schools. This program recruits graduates who are in the top of their class. Additional requirements are that you have a 2.1 degree or above; 300 UCAS points (not including general studies); a degree or an A-level grade A or B in a national curriculum subject; and grade C in GCSE math and English. You must also be available to work in East Midlands, London, North West, West Midlands or Yorkshire. Some additional abilities that are sought include competencies in areas such as leadership, teamwork, resilience, critical thinking, communication skills, initiative and creativity, and respect, humility and empathy.
Assessment-based training is for educators that have substantial teaching experience but do not have qualified teacher status in the United Kingdom. The first requirement is that you compile and submit a portfolio to evidence your ability as a teacher. The second requirement features a visit from someone from the University of Gloucestershire to your school that lasts the entire day. Assessment-based training can take up to a year, beginning and ending at any time.
If you are a qualified educator within the European Union, you are able to access teaching positions due to mobility laws. If you are an overseas educator, you may be qualified to teach in England (only) as a temporary, unqualified teacher for up to four years while you are obtaining qualified teacher status. The four years starts from the first day of teaching regardless of leave time. The length of training depends upon the amount of training required.
You must also achieve a C or better in GCSE English, mathematics and science. The minimum science grade is only required if you desire to teach children ages 7 to 14. If you did not achieve a C, you may take a test or offer other evidence of knowledge attainment.