If you were a traveller planning your next big adventure, you’d carefully organise your route, prepare your supplies, and map out your destinations. And you’d probably buy a guidebook first.
Now Teach’s first role is to be your Lonely Planet Guide to Teaching — packed with insight, expertise and the key information so you can make this bold move with confidence. (Worth saying that you won’t be a lonely career changer if you join our network of career-change teachers. And unlike holidays, we are free.)
When I’m explaining how to apply for teaching, it often surprises people just how long the process takes. It can take between two to four months.
The final term of the school year is already underway, so time is of the essence. Training providers will start closing for applications as we progress through the summer term, so you need to be prepared for a quick turnaround.
We don’t want you arriving at Career Change Junction only to discover that all the routes to Teaching Central are closing — and the next ones won’t open until next year...
So, let’s explore the three crucial steps you need complete to be successful in securing your place for September.
Step 1: Decide on your subject and look at providers (week 1)
This is one of the most personal parts of your journey. What you teach will shape your new career, so choosing a subject you’re passionate about is essential.
You’ll need to consider:
- Your qualifications (you’ll need a degree or an A level at grade B or above in the subject you want to teach)
- Your professional experience
- Your interests
- And the kind of impact you want to make in the classroom.
Visiting schools to see your potential subject in action is a great idea, if you do need this prior to applying start looking at opportunities now.
At the same time, you’ll start looking at teacher training providers. Whether it’s university-led or school-based, location, support structures and the ‘fit’ of the school really matter.
Step 2: Write your personal statement and apply for your course (week 2)
Your personal statement is where you show who you are and why you’re ready to take this step. It’s your chance to demonstrate your passion, your experience, and your readiness to start a new chapter.
Give yourself time to write a thoughtful, compelling statement, we’ll be right there with you to offer guidance and feedback.
Once your statement is ready, it’s time to apply. You can apply for up to four different courses — and the earlier you apply, the more options you’ll have. By early summer, some training providers will be filling up and refusing new applications.
Step 3: Interview and accept your offer (weeks 3 and 4)
If your application is successful, training providers will invite you to interview. These interviews may feel very different to those you’ve done before, so preparation is key.
We offer a one-to-one session with your Career Change Specialist to help you feel confident and clear on what to expect.
You’ll usually get about a week’s notice before an interview. If you’re offered a place, take time to weigh it up. What does the course offer in terms of support, structure and alignment with your values? We can share our insight from previous Now Teachers who have trained with your short list.
And if your offer is conditional (for example, on completing a Subject Knowledge Enhancement course), you’ll want enough time to meet those conditions.
During the summer term there is limited time to complete the shortest, 8 week, SKE. If you feel you would need this applying as soon as possible is crucial.
And get ready for a journey like no other
Congratulations! Once that offer is accepted, the plane has taken off — and you can put your passport (and degree certificate) away.
You’ll meet your Now Teach Programme Manager and your fellow Now Teachers as you join our Network and begin preparations for day one of training. We don’t just help you apply — we help you thrive in your new career.
And unlike that travel rep trying to flog you over-priced tourist traps, we’re here for the long haul and there is not cost to you.
The earlier you start this journey, the less stressful it will be as you prepare for a new academic year and all the significant changes ahead.
Don’t forget, you’ll be making confident decisions at every stage because your Career Change Specialist will be right there to offer expert insight, coaching and mentoring.
