Are you looking to inspire the next generation?

FAO aspiring teachers across Greater Manchester 

Have you just finished your own education and looking to inspire the next generation?

Author | Sophie T

Manchester Academy 

Teaching is far more than a profession. It offers a unique opportunity to shape minds, build confidence, and support both personal and academic development. 

Whether you're drawn to working with children, teenagers or adults, teaching gives you the tools to make a meaningful and lasting difference.

Teachers often find themselves occupying a role that stretches well beyond the boundaries of a typical job. They help guide learners through periods of growth, playing a crucial role in their development and understanding of the world around them.

What qualifications do I need to get started?

If you're considering a career in teaching, there are a few key requirements to get started:

• A Level 3 equivalent qualification in your chosen subject
• GCSEs in English and maths (or equivalent)

You also need to display genuine enthusiasm for learning and supporting others.

Lifelong education requires dedication and a willingness to keep learning. The best teachers are those who commit not only to the success of their students but also to their own development. The specific qualifications you’ll need may vary depending on the level and subject you wish to teach, but core skills such as communication, empathy and patience are essential across the board.

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Where can you get a teaching qualification?

Across Greater Manchester, you can pursue teaching qualifications at several universities and training providers. Within the city centre, these include the University of Manchester, alongside Manchester Metropolitan University and UCEN Manchester.

Bury College, Trafford College and Hopwood Hall College also offer a variety of teacher training courses at their campuses in different parts of Greater Manchester. 

Source | Get Into Teaching

How to prepare for life the classroom

Getting ready to teach is as much about mindset as it is about formal training. It can feel like a daunting step, but the process is both enriching and rewarding.

Begin by securing the right qualifications, including a Level 3 in your subject and GCSEs in English and maths. Then, seek out classroom experience through volunteering or paid roles. This exposure can build your confidence and give you a clearer sense of the dynamics involved in teaching.

Alongside this, focus on developing key transferable skills. The ability to communicate clearly, stay organised and adapt to different situations is vital, regardless of the age group or setting.

Teaching is not just a career, many people see it as a calling. And for those willing to take the first step, the rewards can be lifelong.