Despite the well documented recent strike action by teachers fighting for better pay in light of the cost-of-living crisis and heavy workloads, let’s make no bones about it – a career in teaching and education is one of the most rewarding and fulfilling professions. Not only will you be able to teach a subject that you’re passionate about, but perhaps more importantly you’ll be playing a big part in shaping students’ lives, their future careers, society and the economy at large. In our latest blog, we’ll be elaborating on some of the main reasons why you ought to consider a career in teaching.
A rewarding option
How often do you hear people fondly reminisce about a favourite teacher who had a telling influence on their life? That passion to see children thrive and reach their potential, combined with a love for their subject(s) is what sets great teachers apart. No matter what age groups you’ll be teaching, whether at primary or secondary school level, students will buy into your enthusiasm and desire to help them succeed. Teaching is a true vocation and the job satisfaction that comes from moulding the young generations is truly unparalleled in the world of work.
Another big selling point of teaching, unlike many other roles, is that it also offers job security given the important nature of the position. Other notable benefits are of course substantial holidays (though be aware that some of your time will be taken up preparing and marking) so if you have your own caring responsibilities, for example, the extra time off will enable you to spend more quality time at home. Public sector pensions are also among the best with extremely generous employer contributions, offering an excellent retirement income.
Once qualified, salaries do rise with experience, while you also get to progress within a very clear career path, potentially working your way up to head of department or further. You’ll also be able to transfer to schools in different parts of the country should your circumstances dictate that you have to move location. It is also worth noting, that given the demand for teachers amid acute skills shortages, you can train to become a teacher at any stage of your career. Indeed, many join the teaching ranks after having been successful in a previous career.
Learning to become a great teacher
One of the other big selling points is of course the interaction with students. You’ll be able to change lesson plans and adapt your style to different pupils. Every day is varied, the topics change and the challenges come thick and fast (let’s be honest, it’s not always easy being a teacher having to deal with rowdy pupils, but it certainly puts your skills to the test). The inquisitiveness of students will keep you on your toes and hopefully, you’ll instil a love of learning into them in return. But teaching goes beyond that – you get to know your students and help guide their future and build their confidence.
The variety is even more pronounced for the supply teacher who gets to work across different schools. The experience and knowledge gained by having to adapt to different environments develops a whole host of new skills, not least the ability to adapt and learn but also having to think on your feet and quickly build a rapport with new students on a regular basis.
And it’s not just students that you’re building relationships with. You’ll also be sharing experiences with new colleagues, learning from them as you gain confidence in what is a highly collaborative and supportive environment. Parent evenings will also give you the opportunity to talk proudly about your students to the most important people in their lives while also allowing you to discuss the future and potential career paths. If you spot that your student has a special talent in a particular area, you can garner support from parents and help direct their future direction.
We will be honest, teaching isn’t easy and it will test your skills, but the rewards are worth the effort. The vast majority of professionals relish in the fulfilment they get from working with curious youngsters, some of who come from difficult backgrounds, playing an instrumental role in the development of future generations who will go on to contribute positively to their communities and society at large. You can’t put a price on that.
Looking for your next supply teaching role? Contact us today!
