I’ve got a psychology degree and a postgraduate qualification in social work. I’m looking into secondary school teaching but I’m not sure if my qualifications and experience would allow this.
Psychology is being increasingly taught at A-level in schools. However, the General Teacher Training Register handbook does not list a single course for trainee secondary school teachers. There are courses for those interested in teaching in further education and that could be a route.
After gaining an FE teaching qualification you could complete on the job training in a school. Or, find a school that would offer you a job with a training place on the graduate training programme. Although there have been around 20 adverts from schools for teachers of psychology this year, you might need to offer a second subject, or work part-time as few schools can offer a whole timetable in the subject, and you might find teaching the whole of the A-syllabus by yourself demanding.
If you have a question for John Howson, please email susan.young@tes.co.uk
