Becoming a Maths Teacher in the UK

Becoming a maths teacher in the UK is a fulfilling career choice for individuals who have a passion for mathematics and want to inspire the next generation of learners. Maths is an essential subject that equips students with logical reasoning and problem-solving skills that are useful in their personal and professional lives.

As a maths teacher, you have the opportunity to make a positive impact on your students' academic and personal growth.

In this article, we will discuss the requirements, qualifications, and steps to becoming a maths teacher in the UK.

To become a maths teacher in the UK, you need to meet the following requirements:

To gain QTS, you can either complete a university-based teacher training programme or an on-the-job school-based training programme.

There are three main routes to gaining QTS:

Undergraduate degree with QTS: This is a four-year programme that combines a maths degree with teacher training. It is offered by some universities, and students will receive a degree and QTS upon completion.

Postgraduate degree with QTS: This is a one-year programme that combines a maths degree with teacher training. It is offered by some universities and involves a mixture of theoretical study and practical teaching experience.

School-based training programmes: These are on-the-job training programmes that allow you to train while working as an unqualified teacher in a school. There are two main types of school-based training programmes: School Direct and Teach First.

School Direct is a school-led teacher training programme that allows you to work in a school while receiving training and support from experienced teachers. The programme can last for one year or longer, depending on the school's requirements. Teach First is a two-year programme that combines teacher training with a leadership development programme. It is aimed at graduates with a 2:1 or higher in any subject and who have a desire to make a difference in challenging schools.

Steps to becoming a maths teacher

Decide on your preferred route to QTS: Consider your academic background, teaching experience, and personal circumstances when choosing a route to gaining QTS. Research different programmes and choose the one that best suits your needs.

Apply for a teacher training programme: Once you have decided on your preferred route to QTS, you can start applying for teacher training programmes. You will need to submit an application form and attend an interview.

Complete your training: Depending on your chosen route, you will spend one to four years completing your training. During this time, you will gain practical teaching experience, attend theoretical classes, and receive support and guidance from experienced teachers.

Gain QTS: Upon completion of your training, you will need to pass the professional skills tests and meet the requirements for QTS. You will then receive your QTS and be able to apply for teaching jobs.

Apply for teaching jobs: You can apply for teaching jobs in schools, colleges, and universities. You will need to submit a CV, cover letter, and attend an interview. Schools may also ask you to teach a lesson as part of the interview process.

Continued professional development: As a maths teacher, it is important to stay up-to-date with the latest teaching methods and curriculum changes. You can attend training courses, workshops, and conferences to develop your skills and knowledge.

In conclusion, becoming a maths teacher in the UK is a challenging but rewarding career choice. You need to have a degree in maths or a related subject, gain QTS, and have a clear DBS check. There are different routes to gaining QTS, including university-based programmes and school-based training programmes such as School Direct and Teach First. Once you have gained QTS, you can apply for teaching jobs and continue your professional development. Maths teachers play a crucial role in inspiring and educating the next generation of learners, and this career path offers the opportunity to make a positive impact on students' academic and personal growth.

Once qualified, search for teaching jobs on Apply4 Driving Jobs.