Teacher training problems: what next?

I have been working in a secondary school for the last two years. Initially my role was as a Teaching Assistant, but in time it has expanded to be a mixture of TA, cover supervisor - covering a variety of lessons during teacher absence - and instructor - planning, teaching and assessing my specialist subject twice per week.

Last year I applied for a PGCE but, despite being accepted following a strong interview, funding issues meant the course was withdrawn. By this stage all similar PGCE courses, Teach First and the Graduate Teacher Programme were full. I decided to stick with my job and apply again the following year.

Unfortunately, twelve months on I've had similar luck regards getting onto a course.

I have a mortgage and live with my partner; although I have not completely ruled out moving to another city for a PGCE this option is not desirable. Teach First and Sheffield Hallam University's GTP courses are full. My degree and college qualifications are in Graphic Design, so this really narrows down what I can apply for.

Is there another way for me to train to be a teacher? If not, what other options are open to me? While I have had my heart set on teaching, should I give up for now and explore other options?

I have been working in a secondary school for the last two years.

 

Initially my role was as a Teaching Assistant, but in time it has expanded to be a mixture of TA, cover supervisor - covering a variety of lessons during teacher absence - and instructor - planning, teaching and assessing my specialist subject twice per week.

 

Last year I applied for a PGCE but, despite being accepted following a strong interview, funding issues meant the course was withdrawn. By this stage all similar PGCE courses, Teach First and the Graduate Teacher Programme were full. I decided to stick with my job and apply again the following year.

 

Unfortunately twelve months on I've had similar luck.

 

I have a mortgage and live with my partner; although I have not completely ruled out moving to another city for a PGCE this option is not desirable. Teach First and Sheffield Hallam University's GTP courses are full. My degree and college qualifications are in Graphic Design, so this really narrows down what I can apply for.

 

Is there another way for me to train to be a teacher? If not, what other options are open to me? While I have had my heart set on teaching, should I give up for now and explore other options?

I know absolutely nothing about teaching in a school capacity, so my opinion may have little affect or significance. However, what about doing some teaching/teaching assisting on a part time voluntary basis if they will let you do that, to coincide working else where on a paid capacity so you get best of both worlds? And when you've weathered the storm, something might some up full time and paid eventually? That way, you'll have the experience and my increase your chances.

You sound really passionate about it and when you enjoy what you do, people always preform better and it's often noticeable. Please don't give up... we need people like you.

I know absolutely nothing about teaching in a school capacity, so my opinion may have little affect or significance. However, what about doing some teaching/teaching assisting on a part time voluntary basis if they will let you do that, to coincide working else where on a paid capacity so you get best of both worlds? And when you've weathered the storm, something might some up full time and paid eventually? That way, you'll have the experience and my increase your chances.

 

You sound really passionate about it and when you enjoy what you do, people always preform better and it's often noticeable. Please don't give up... we need people like you.

The op works as a teaching assistant.

I know absolutely nothing about teaching in a school capacity, so my opinion may have little affect or significance. However, what about doing some teaching/teaching assisting on a part time voluntary basis if they will let you do that, to coincide working else where on a paid capacity so you get best of both worlds? And when you've weathered the storm, something might some up full time and paid eventually? That way, you'll have the experience and my increase your chances.

 

You sound really passionate about it and when you enjoy what you do, people always preform better and it's often noticeable. Please don't give up... we need people like you.

Did you actually read the OP?

that will teach me to scan read lol

I can't do two things at once!

sorry, got the wrong end of the stick

Tbh ****..

Depending on what your wanting to teach (i guess something like graphics and DT?) with what ever else you can cover..

most of my teacher freinds now started using the cover agencies... work can be a little on/off but it gets you an in...

Also your just coming up to teacher placement advertisements (Jan is usual teaching job appearance time).. sticking with TAing is probably a start... have you approached the school your in to see if they can help you in anyway?

The courses at hallam if your looking at the DT PGCE's and that are pretty naff when it comes to graphic design, textiles and food. they really focus on the resistant materials and electronics side of things..

Fletch

You sound really passionate about it and when you enjoy what you do, people always preform better and it's often noticeable. Please don't give up... we need people like you.

I agree - don't give up on your goals. Good things come to those who wait! But are proactive

There must be other ways you can do this. Is there a government body you can contact for help and advice on this?

Good luck with your career. I hope you get what you deserve

Is this site any use to you?

http://www.tda.gov.uk/get-into-teaching/teacher-training-options.aspx

I don't know whether you may be able to apply for assessment based training or the Registered Teacher Programme, for instance - it might be worth investigating.

Good Luck!