Studying teaching is focused on inspiring and guiding young minds. As well as traditional teaching roles, the subject also offers career growth in educational leadership, curriculum development, and specialised fields like educational technology and policy analysis. Aspiring teachers not only gain practical classroom skills but also become advocates for positive change in education. The emphasis on adaptability, interpersonal connections, and leadership in teaching prepares graduates for a fulfilling career where they can shape the future of education.
There are a few routes into teaching, with the most common being undertaking a QTS (qualified teacher status) undergraduate degree, or completing a PGCE (Post Graduate Certificate in Education) teacher training programme after you have completed an undergraduate degree in your chosen subject.
The impact you could make
Shape the next generation of thinkers, innovators, and leaders
Inspire students to become active and responsible global citizens
Instil values of inclusivity and diversity, contributing to the development of a more tolerant and understanding society
I have completed undergrad in the field of education of students with visual impairments in Turkey. After that, I have worked in a special education centre as a special education teacher for almost one year. When I was working, I won a scholarship. Thanks to the scholarship, an exiting adventure has started in my life. Thereafter, I have completed master degree at The University of Nottingham, which provided unforgettable experiences to me. Nowadays, I am in Plymouth and interested in doctoral studies about students with dyslexia. After I complete my studies, I will be academician at Marmara university in Turkey.
Ben
Bangor University
Teaching
I am a fourth year primary teaching student. I have a passion for Lacrosse and sailing. I also enjoy hiking and walking. I have a deep understanding of our university and life in and around Bangor.
Hattie
Solent University
BA (Hons) Education
Hi! Im Hattie. Im currently in my first year at Solent University. Im studying BA (Hons) Education and my future career goal is to work in a school supporting SEND. I’m also currently living in the Solent Student Residences. When Im not at university I enjoy playing hockey for my local club and walking my two dogs. I was nervous to settle into uni, so if you have any questions at all please feel free to reach out! I’m here to help 😊
Ellie
University of Suffolk
BA (Hons) Childhood: Primary Education with QTS
Hello! I’m Ellie, a first year student at the university of Suffolk. Alongside studying I also participate in placement within a primary school. In my first year I lived at Athena hall in term time, which is the student accomadation here at Suffolk. I am enjoying my uni experience and modules so far.
Charlotte
Staffordshire University
Education
Hi I’m Charlotte, I am mature student at Staff Uni. I’m studying education studies with my end goal to go into teaching primary school children. The course so far has been so much more than expected and I am so pleased that I chose this option, it has so much to offer! The options seem endless with this course. My hope to travel abroad and teach in a school in Spain or Portugal. I am a single parent and have two children, a toddler and a teenager so I’m currently juggling uni life with home life.
Paige
Nottingham Trent University
Childhood, Education and Teacher Training
Hi, I'm Paige 👋🏻! I currently study Primary Education 👩🏼🏫. I am looking to become a Primary School Teacher when I leave university 🎓 and in the future a Headteacher. At sixth form I studied English Language (A-level), Sociology (A-level), Health and Social Care (BTEC Diploma) and an EPQ.
I can't wait to start answering your questions about anything relating to university life🥂!
Ellie
University of Lincoln
Education - BA (Hons)
Hello! I am a 2nd year Education student I love the course and am happy to answer any questions about it! I'm also a recruitment ambassador for the university, which means I get to meet lots of prospective students and share what it’s like to study at university, I am personal statement trained and am happy to assist with any personal statement enquires.
If you have any questions or would like some top tips, I am happy to help!
Ethan
Coventry University
Theatre and Professional Practice BA (Hons)
My future plans is to develop from my current course and advance into the field of acting working hard to find jobs and make a name for myself in the industry
Hannah
Durham University
BA Primary Education (X101)
Hi, I'm Hannah! I am from Derbyshire and I am a first year in St Mary's College studying Primary Education. In the future, I hope to travel the world teaching English and then eventually become a Head Teacher! I absolutely love playing sport and during lockdown, I took up baking which went down very well with my family! So far, I am absolutely loving Durham especially since the city is stunning, I love how everything is within walking distance and everyone seems so unbelievably friendly! If you have any questions at all, I would be more than happy to help :)
Anh
University of Northampton
MA TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages)
Xin chào/Hello, I’m Anh and currently studying MA TESOL. I enjoy taking photos, creating reels on Instagram and listening to pop/indie music. It is my pleasure to work as a Unibuddy Ambassador at University of Northampton. I’m always here to listen to you. Please don't hesitate to ask me anything.
Emily
Leeds Beckett University
Primary Education (5-11) with recommendation for QTS | PGCE
Hello I am Emily, I have just finished my final year of my Childhood Studies Degree ! I am now studying a PGCE (5-11) Primary If you have any enquires regarding either courses please drop me a message !
Anna
Nottingham Trent University
Education and Teacher Training
After finishing uni I look forward to having a class of my own to teach. I enjoy spending time with my friends, exploring new places, running and going out for a boogie!
Lauren
University of Wales Trinity Saint David
Early Years Education and Care: Early Years Practitioner Status (BA)
I am a mum of two lovely children. I went back to university aged 30 to finally get my degree. I am interested in going into lecturing so I plan to do my PCET once I have completed the degree!
Charlotte
University of Plymouth
MA Education
After graduating from my BA (hons) Education Studies degree in 2021, I went straight on to the MA Education course with the aim of networking and expanding my knowledge in regards to alternative education and outdoor learning- with a focus on England's secondary schooling system.
As I am studying part-time, I have been able to secure a job in the inclusion department of a South West secondary school which has enabled me to critically examine and apply the knowledge I have gained into my practice, whilst becoming more aware of the struggles and barriers in contemporary education. Although I am still exploring and navigating my way through career possibilities, my ambition is to utilise my passion for an alternative schooling system in whichever form that may take.
Heidi
Nottingham Trent University
Childhood, Education and Teacher Training
I previously studied the BA Hons Primary Education (with QTS) Course at NTU, and am now finishing my studies by completing MA Education. In the future I hope to be a Primary School teacher. I loved the course, and lived at home throughout. I am happy to answer any of your questions relating to the course, or uni life in general!
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“Global citizenship! I love learning about how we as teachers can inform children of the climate crisis in a child friendly and sensitive way whilst empowering them to become environmental activists.”
Second year primary education (QTS) student at University of Reading
Example assignment
“Literature reviews of different teaching methods and researching how phonics is taught to children and how it is embedded.”
Second year learning and teaching student at University of Northampton
Subjects it's useful to have studied first
Some teaching courses or apprenticeships will have requirements for previous qualifications in certain subjects.
English
Maths
Science
Hard skills you'll develop
Create structured and engaging lesson plans
Maintain a positive and organised learning environment
Behaviour management and conflict resolution
Teaching methods to accommodate diverse learning styles
Soft skills you'll develop
Patience
Creativity
Time management
Resilience
Careers: Where it can take you
Find out more about your career prospects from studying teaching. The following information is based on a typical teaching professional role.
The perfect job for a lover of the great outdoors, an outdoor education leader focuses on teaching and exploring nature. They guide students through an unconventional classroom to teach various subjects, using science, environmental studies, and team-building activities. The natural world means lessons aren’t confined to textbooks but instead unfold in the rustling leaves, flowing rivers, and open skies. This teaching job breaks free from traditional classroom constraints, offering students a unique learning experience that connects them with the wonders of the natural world. You can also qualify to be a forest school leader to take your outdoor learning skills further.
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Application advice
Whether it's personal statement tips or what to write in a cover letter for an apprenticeship application, our application advice will help you get ahead in your teaching journey.
Skills, experiences, and interests to mention
Do you have any hands-on experience in teaching or tutoring, whether in formal or informal settings?
What does teaching mean to you and why are you passionate about it? What difference do you think it makes in the world?
Show your ability to reflect on your teaching and learning experiences, emphasising how reflection contributes to ongoing improvement and professional growth.
Emphasise your strong interpersonal and communication skills, essential for building positive relationships with students, parents, and colleagues.
If you can, discuss any innovative teaching methods, projects, or approaches you've explored or implemented, showcasing your creativity and willingness to experiment.
We asked admissions tutors to share their dos and don’ts for writing a strong and engaging teacher training and education personal statement. Here's what they told us.