subject: Your Essential Guide To Becoming A Secondary School Teacher [print this page] The job of being a secondary school teacher is a rewarding and challenging choice of career. Secondary school children from the ages of 13 18 are at a particularly influential time of their lives and it is important that their teachers and tutors are positive role models. A students experience of secondary school can make or break their future. If you are a dedicated, intelligent and well balanced individual who wishes to embark upon a demanding yet fulfilling career then secondary school teaching could be for you.
As a secondary school teacher the qualifications you will require should include GCSE grade C or above in mathematics, English and science as a minimum. A-levels are a standard, followed by a bachelor degree in your chosen subject which will precede a postgraduate certificate of education. It is also possible to train to be a teacher whilst completing a bachelor degree of education, bachelor degree of arts or a bachelor degree of science.
If you are considering a career as a secondary school teacher it is important that your motives are set out before you begin. You should be able to teach a subject or concept in a number of different ways to reach students who may have different styles of learning. The job of teaching secondary school children can be difficult as it is necessary to motivate and inspire young minds.
It is extremely important to continually study your subjects and stay ahead of changes in your chosen field. Some subjects such as history or art may have much of its roots set in stone however technology is ever changing. Students are a lot more likely to stay focused if their mentor is ahead of the game and globally aware. In order for a secondary school teacher to reach his or her pupils it is a basic requirement to demonstrate sincerity for their overall successes in life beginning with their education.
You will teach according to the national curriculum however it will be necessary to plan and deliver your own lessons in an individual style. Progress within classrooms offers endless possibilities such as the use of interactive whiteboards and the capabilities of planning lessons which can be adapted in real-time to suit the learning style of a particular group of students.
Teacher educations programs will help you to develop skills and offer tips when it comes to dealing with young adults, hormones are raging and egos are at play. One of the biggest challenges of a secondary school teacher is to earn the respect of their students and it may be necessary to develop a thick skin to get by. The rewards are tenfold, it is very fulfilling to see your students leave school well-equipped and qualified to go on and lead equally rewarding lives.
