Careers - Teach First Q&A

Q I’ve heard there is a scheme that gives you a chance to teach before you start your chosen career, could you tell me more?

A Teach First gives high-calibre graduates an opportunity to train and qualify as teachers and work for at least two years in challenging secondary schools in London, Greater Manchester and the Midlands. Under the scheme you would contribute to the extracurricular life of your school, and take courses in strategy, marketing and finance, and skills masters classes. You would also attend regular networking events with industry leaders and benefit from the support of an experienced network of advisers and coaches. This is good preparation for your future career.

You need to have studied 40% of the national curriculum subject you wish to teach as part of your degree. Minimum requirements are a 2:1 degree and a minimum of 300 UCAS points. (Unfortunately the scheme is not open to international candidates requiring work permits.)

Applications for the 2008 intake are now open to graduates and final year students via www.teachfirst.org.uk

There’s a Teach First presentation on 25th October, 5.30pm – 8.00pm – for details go to ‘employer recruitment presentations’ on www.studentnet.manchester.ac.uk/careers There’s also a Teach First stand this week in the Students Union.