Choosing a career in teaching

If you're looking for programmes in England, use the DfE's 'Apply for teacher training' service. If you're looking for programmes in Wales or Scotland, use UCAS' search tool.

Looking for postgraduate teacher training programmes in Northern Ireland? Find out how to apply.

Teaching provides great job satisfaction, and no two days are the same. But before you apply, find out more about salary, career progression, and other benefits you can expect to make sure teaching is right for you.

• England – Get Into Teaching
• Scotland – Teach in Scotland
• Wales – Educators Wales

For many teachers, the rewards are more than just financial – read why Dame Alison Peacock, Pranav Patel, and Hannah Taylor chose a career in teaching.

I can honestly say that I am amazed by the wonderful experience that teaching has offered me. I have never regretted choosing this career path for a single moment.
Dame Alison Peacock, Chief Executive, Chartered College of Teaching

A great way to find out is to arrange some classroom experience in a local school or college. If you can spend time observing lessons, it will give you a valuable insight into what teaching is really like. Hear first-hand from teachers about their experience of gaining class time.

Whether you’re choosing teaching as your first job, or looking to change career, the thought of taking your first class can be daunting. We asked three of our bloggers to share their experience and top tips for trainee teachers-to-be:

• Former journalist, Alex
• Recent graduate, Hannah
• Teaching Assistant, Tom

 The great thing about your training is that you have the freedom to experiment, and concentrate on becoming the best teacher you can be.
Tom Savagar, trainee teacher

Apply through UCAS Undergraduate for all teacher training programmes in Wales and Scotland.

• Training providers are happy to answer queries – they can offer you advice about gaining a place on their training programme.
• If possible, try to attend an open day.
• Your chosen training provider(s) should offer advice on references they would consider suitable.
• They should also give clear information about their application process, and what you can expect at each stage.