Last updated on Jul 11, 2024

You're ready to move up in your teaching career. What steps can you take to become a full-time teacher?

Embarking on a full-time teaching career is an exciting and significant step. If you're looking to transition from a part-time or substitute position, or even if you're fresh from obtaining your teaching credentials, there are clear strategies to help you land that coveted full-time role. With dedication, the right qualifications, and a proactive approach, you can position yourself as an ideal candidate for a full-time teaching position. Understanding the requirements and expectations of schools and demonstrating your commitment to education are key to making this transition successful.

1 Gain Credentials

To become a full-time teacher, the first step is ensuring you have the necessary credentials. This typically means having at least a bachelor's degree in education or a related field and obtaining a teaching license or certification specific to your state or region. The process often involves completing an accredited teacher education program and passing required exams. Continuous professional development is also crucial, so consider pursuing further education, such as a master's degree or specialized certifications, to enhance your qualifications and stay competitive in the job market.

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Priv Obrike

Education Speaker, Mentor, RE Teacher, Mental Health Ambassador, Life Coach
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In the UK you can gain your qualifications either through PGCE route or SCITT route. The PGCE is often done via university with placement at two schools during the course. The SCITT route is direct school training which means you are in the classroom from day 1. Both will give you QTS. Further to your degree, it is important to make most of the CPD provided to enhance your knowledge and keep up to date with pedagogy

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2 Build Experience

Gaining relevant experience is essential. Start by taking on substitute teaching roles, volunteering in educational settings, or working as a teacher's aide. These opportunities allow you to demonstrate your teaching skills, understand classroom dynamics, and develop relationships with other educators and administrators. Experience also helps you refine your teaching philosophy and techniques, making you a more effective educator and a stronger candidate for a full-time position.

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Priv Obrike

Education Speaker, Mentor, RE Teacher, Mental Health Ambassador, Life Coach
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Anyone contemplating on a teaching career must spend some time in a school. I would advise at least a day minimum so one can observe lessons, school culture as well as behaviour. Many people underestimate the workload and challenges that come with teaching and end up burnt out within the first 6months to a year. Becoming a voluntary teaching assistant is one of the best ways to gain experience, you also view the lessons from the students point of view which in invaluable in your planning once you become a teacher.

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Luiz Henrique Debei Herling

Consultor de Empresas | Executivo em Finanças Corporativas| Professor de Administração e Finanças | Coordenador de Logística |
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A begginer university professor can work towards acquiring relevant experiences by taking the following steps: Engage in Research Projects; Publish Academic Papers; Attend Conferences and Workshops; Seek Mentorship; Teach a Variety of Courses as a volunteer; Develop Course Materials; Engage with Students; Collaborate with Colleagues; Pursue Professional Development; Get Involved in Academic Committees; Stay Current in Your Field.

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3 Network Actively

Networking can significantly impact your job search. Engage with fellow educators, attend educational conferences, and participate in professional development workshops. Connecting with others in the field can lead to recommendations or insider information about upcoming job openings. Don't underestimate the power of social media platforms for professional networking; LinkedIn and other education-focused groups can be valuable resources for connecting with potential employers.

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4 Personal Branding

Developing a strong personal brand as an educator can set you apart. This includes creating a professional portfolio that showcases your teaching philosophy, lesson plans, and examples of student work. Maintain an up-to-date resume that highlights your education, experience, and any special skills or accomplishments. A well-crafted cover letter tailored to each job application is also crucial in making a memorable impression on potential employers.

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5 Interview Preparation

When you land an interview, thorough preparation is key to success. Research the school or district to understand its culture, educational philosophy, and community involvement. Prepare to discuss your teaching methods, classroom management strategies, and how you plan to contribute to the school's success. Practice answering common interview questions with a colleague or mentor to build confidence and ensure you present yourself as a knowledgeable and passionate educator.

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Priv Obrike

Education Speaker, Mentor, RE Teacher, Mental Health Ambassador, Life Coach
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One of the best places to research is the school website, it will have the mission statement and school ethos and values. These can help you answer questions on how you will fit into the school. Contacting the school in advance to ask specific questions for instance, if you are to teach an hour long RE lesson, it is important to know where in the curriculum the students are so you know how to pitch your lessons. Know your safeguarding and how to keep children safe as this is paramount in education. Plan to answer questions honestly for the student panel as this is also important.

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6 Reflect and Adapt

Finally, reflection and adaptability are vital traits for any teacher. After interviews or trial teaching sessions, take time to reflect on your performance and gather feedback. Be open to constructive criticism and willing to adapt your approaches to meet the needs of different learning environments. Showing a willingness to learn and grow not only improves your teaching but also demonstrates to potential employers that you are committed to excellence in education.

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7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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You're ready to move up in your teaching career. What steps can you take to become a full-time teacher?

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Gain Credentials

2 Build Experience

3 Network Actively

4 Personal Branding

5 Interview Preparation

6 Reflect and Adapt

7 Here’s what else to consider

Teaching

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You're ready to move up in your teaching career. What steps can you take to become a full-time teacher?

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Gain Credentials

2 Build Experience

3 Network Actively

4 Personal Branding

5 Interview Preparation

6 Reflect and Adapt

7 Here’s what else to consider

Teaching

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