Lack of a degree doesn’t need to be a barrier to getting into further education (FE). In 2013, the government lifted the requirement that newly appointed teachers in the FE sector have completed formal teacher training.
Instead, you can get your teacher training on the job. Depending on the criteria of the specific FE institution, the Level 5 Diploma in Education and Training (DET) can be obtained part-time while working as an FE teacher.
Many FE employers are more than willing to overlook a lack of degree and/or teaching qualification, provided you have considerable expertise in your chosen field. In which case, an institution would expect a Level 2 (GCSE or equivalent) in English and Maths and significant industry experience.
Getting teaching experience via starting as a Learning Support Assistant (LSA)
You can also get into the classroom by starting as a learning support assistant (LSA).
LSAs provide tailored support to individual students ‘outside the classroom’ to help learners progress and achieve. This includes tracking and monitoring progress, identifying and overcoming barriers to learning, and signposting for additional learning support, academic support or welfare needs.
Starting off as an LSA is the ideal place for you to gain valuable experience within the FE environment before embarking on a specific teacher training route. Gaining a foothold into teaching through becoming an LSA can enable you to then take an appropriate qualification.
Think of it as taking a step up a ladder with the awarding of a teaching qualification at the top.
AoCJobs, part of the Association of Colleges, connects teachers and support staff with schools and colleges for online job opportunities.
