Why become a teacher?
Teaching gives the unparalleled opportunity to have a real impact on the lives of others. A great education builds confidence, gives children and young people choices, and impacts positively on society: we know that the economic future prosperity of our hub communities is inextricably linked to children’s aspirations and the quality of education.
Teaching is a profession which offers academic challenge and variety. Working with children means that no two days are the same! Many teachers move from school to school, in diverse roles, often progressing to senior and executive leadership positions. Structured pay progression, generous holidays and a great pension are also just a few of the many reasons why teaching is a great career choice for those who want to make a difference. So why teach? Here are 10 reasons:
1. No two days are the same
Some people flourish in a job situation where they know exactly what is expected. Yet for many, the thought of repeating the same task between the hours of 9-5 day every day sounds deeply unpleasant. If you’re the type of person who avoids getting stuck in a rut, teaching may be just right for you. Teaching is a job with built-in variety, as you work through new units, teach new topics, and work with new children each year.
2. You’ll get to learn as well as teach
One of the main reasons for wanting to teach is devotion to lifelong learning. Teachers not only get to share their existing knowledge, but they get to dig deeply into topics and learn something new along the way. With the help of training like our SKE courses, teachers can handle probing questions and teach students to see subjects in entirely new ways. Teachers must also stay on top of new technologies, trends, and historic events, ensuring you’ll always be learning something new.
3. Teaching makes a difference, with visible results
If you ask most potential teachers “why do you want to become a teacher,” they’ll mention the ability to make a real difference in students’ lives. Unlike other professions where you may work behind the scenes, as a teacher you’ll be up front to see the visible changes. There’s nothing quite like seeing the spark of understanding on a child’s face as a lesson “clicks” for them. Why teach? So that you can impact students from all walks of life, imparting lessons that will help shape the next generation.
4. Teachers can work all over the world
Teaching is a highly transferable skill. If you train to become a qualified teacher, you’ll be able to work pretty much anywhere in the world. Whether it’s teaching English or a specialised subject, you can work and explore at the same time. International schools are growing in number all over the world and many are looking favourably upon teachers who have trained and qualified in England.
5. You’ll benefit from flexible hours
For parents, many reasons for wanting to teach involve the convenient scheduling. If you have children, you will be on the same schedule. Teachers need to take care of prep work and lesson planning after the school day ends, but in many cases this can be done from home.
6. Holidays
While they may not be the number reason to become a teacher, summer holidays are another great perk. Not to mention spring holidays and half-term time. The paid time off outside of the academic year is certainly a bonus for teachers.
7. You’ll have job security
While other jobs can be replaced by technology, there will always be a need for teachers. Many areas, particularly in urban centres, have high demand for qualified teachers. There’s also a high degree of mobility within the education field. Former teachers can go on to become administrators, guidance counsellors, or social workers.
8. Teaching is a highly social job
Another bonus for many is the chance to work in a social atmosphere. You’ll work as part of a team with your colleagues, while interacting with students each day. Teachers also have the opportunity to become an integral part of the community, getting to know parents and community members.
9. At the same time, you’ll have independence
Yet at the same time, as a teacher you are in charge of your own classroom. You’ll be able to make decisions regarding what’s best for your students, and lay out your own lesson plans. Although you’ll need to follow certain standards in your curriculum, you have the opportunity to inject your own personality into your job.
10. You’ll have more than just a job
At the end of the day, teaching offers far more than just a pay cheque. You’ll have a satisfying career, knowing that you’ve made a difference in many lives. Through interacting with students and community members from a range of different backgrounds, you’ll gain greater understanding of your own society and flex your creative skills. So why teach? For the personal growth.
