If you are looking to become a teacher, you might feel a little overwhelmed with the amount of information there is about the different routes into the teaching profession.
If you’ve ever found yourself asking, “What courses do I need to become a teacher?”, you’re not alone. Navigating the path to becoming a qualified teacher can seem daunting, but by understanding the key steps and training options you can make a much more informed decision armed with the knowledge you need to pick the best pathway to get you qualified and begin your teaching journey.
Whether you’re starting from scratch or transitioning into teaching from another career, there’s a course designed to get you there, and here we’ll provide you with all your options.
Why Choose Teaching?
Teaching is one of the most impactful careers you can pursue. Recent research highlights the long-term influence great teachers have on students' academic and personal development. A study by The Education Policy Institute revealed that quality teaching significantly narrows achievement gaps. This means that children from disadvantaged backgrounds have an increased chance of attaining higher educational qualifications, with the right support from t?heir teachers.
What this means for you is that with the right qualifications and career support, you could be that teacher who changes lives.
Courses to Start Your Teaching Career
To become a teacher in the UK, you’ll need to complete specific qualifications depending on your background, subject interest, and age group preference. Here's a detailed look:
Undergraduate Pathways
One of the most popular routes into teaching is to attend university and obtain a degree. If you are sure that teaching is what you want to do, these courses will get you qualified as well as give you hands-on experience of what it’s like to teach in a classroom setting.
- Bachelor of Education (BEd): Ideal for those wanting to teach primary-aged children, this degree combines academic learning with classroom experience. By graduation, you’ll achieve Qualified Teacher Status (QTS).
- BA/BSc with QTS: Perfect for subject enthusiasts, these degrees let you focus on areas like English, Science, or Maths while gaining teaching credentials.
These undergraduate routes are efficient and integrate teaching practice early on, preparing you for the realities of the classroom.
Postgraduate Teacher Training
If you have already obtained a bachelor’s degree (in any subject), and have now decided that teaching is right for you, postgraduate programs provide tailored routes into teaching:
- Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE): This popular option allows you to specialize in primary, secondary, or further education. Offered at universities across the UK, it combines academic learning with school placements.
- School-Centered Initial Teacher Training (SCITT): Delivered in schools rather than universities, SCITT is ideal if you prefer a hands-on learning experience. Many SCITTs also offer a PGCE qualification.
- Teach First: For career changers or recent graduates, Teach First provides a paid, two-year route into teaching in underserved communities.
Subject Knowledge Enhancement (SKE) Courses
If the subject (s)you studied for your undergraduate degree aren’t related to teaching, don’t worry. You can also take SKE courses to level up your knowledge and ensure you have the skills you need to successfully complete the teacher training program.
For example, aspiring Maths or Science teachers with unrelated degrees can boost their expertise through these government-funded programs.
Specialised Teacher Training
If you already have your heart set on teaching a particular subject or aged group, there are specific training options to help get you qualified.
- Early Years Initial Teacher Training (EYITT): This course prepares you to work with children aged 0–5, focusing on foundational learning and development.
- Further Education Training: For teaching adults or post-16 students, you’ll need a qualification such as a Diploma in Education and Training (DET).
Apprenticeships
Teaching apprenticeships are fantastic for those who want to get stuck into teaching straight away. They are also very useful if you want to experience what life is like in the classroom from the outset, to make sure that teaching is the right career path for you. A teaching apprenticeship means that you can earn while you learn. As a postgraduate apprentice, you’ll complete your teacher training while working in a school.
Courses for Qualified Teachers
Once you’ve qualified as a teacher, there are still plenty of opportunities for further learning and development. Continuous Professional Development (CPD) is essential for staying effective in the classroom and advancing your career.
National Professional Qualifications (NPQs)
These are prestigious qualifications designed for leadership or specialist roles in teaching:
- NPQ for Leading Teaching: For teachers focused on improving classroom practices.
- NPQ for Headship: Aimed at those aspiring to headteacher roles.
Master’s in Education (MEd)
Many teachers choose to pursue advanced degrees to deepen their knowledge or specialise in areas like educational leadership or curriculum development.
Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) Training
SEND courses equip teachers to support students with diverse learning needs, fostering inclusivity in classrooms.
Why Personalised Training Matters
A tailored approach to teacher training can significantly improve outcomes. Research by the National Foundation for Educational Research indicates that teachers who have proper guidance and support are more confident and effective in their roles?.
Moreover, ongoing training ensures teachers stay updated on the latest educational methods and policies.
How Horizon Teachers Can Help
Whether you’re just starting your journey or looking to grow your career, Horizon Teachers is here to support you. We are teacher recruitment specialists, and it's our passion to help teachers find their dream jobs all across London & the South East. So why not browse our jobs board or get in touch with our friendly team today?
Take the First Step Today
Now that you know what courses you need to become a teacher, it’s time to take action. Whether you’re exploring undergraduate degrees or ready for postgraduate training, the right course will set you on the path to making a difference in students’ lives. Start your journey with Horizon Teachers—because every great teacher starts with a great decision.
For more information, visit the Get Into Teaching website or explore the latest educational insights at The Education Policy Institute.
