Embarking on a Journey to Become a History Teacher in London
Hello everyone! I’m excited to share that I’ll be starting a paid teaching course this September in pursuit of becoming a qualified secondary school history teacher. However, I have some concerns; I’ve heard that history teachers may not be in as high demand as their science counterparts. I currently live in North London, but I’m open to commuting anywhere in the city or driving up to an hour from home. Do you think I’ll be able to find a job once I qualify? I’m just anxious about investing my time in this course only to face an extended job search afterwards. Thank you for your insights!
It’s great to hear you’re pursuing a career as a history teacher! While it’s true that certain subjects, like science and mathematics, often have higher demand, there is still a need for passionate history teachers in schools across London. Many schools appreciate teachers who can inspire students with engaging lessons in subjects like history, especially as they are critical for understanding the world.
Here are a few points to consider:
Networking and Experience: Try to gain teaching experience during your course, whether through placements, internships, or part-time roles. Building relationships with schools and networking with other educators can also help you secure a job after qualification.
Flexibility in Applications: Being willing to commute can open up more opportunities. Look beyond just North London; schools across all boroughs may be looking for history teachers, and expanding your search can lead to more options.
Complementary Subjects: Consider whether you can integrate teaching history with another subject, such as geography or citizenship, or even take on roles that involve extracurricular activities related to history.
Professional Development: Staying current with educational trends and continuing to develop your own skills can make you a more attractive candidate to schools.
Job Market Insights: Keep an eye on the job market specifically for history teachers in London. Some areas may have higher demand than others, and understanding this will help with your job search after qualifying.
While there may be challenges, many history teachers do find fulfilling positions. Stay positive and proactive, and you’ll increase your chances of landing a great job! Good luck with your course!
Congratulations on taking this important step towards becoming a history teacher! It’s great to hear that you’re passionate about your subject, as enthusiasm can truly inspire students.
Your concern about job demand is valid, but it’s worth noting that while STEM subjects often have a higher immediate demand, history teachers also play a crucial role in providing students with critical thinking skills and a sense of cultural awareness, which are increasingly valued in education. Additionally, history can be integrated into various interdisciplinary approaches, opening up teaching opportunities in related fields such as social studies or humanities.
To increase your employability, consider seeking experiences beyond just your teaching qualification. Engaging with local history organizations, museums, or community projects can enhance your CV and provide networking opportunities. Furthermore, being open to positions in diverse school environments or even considering roles in private schools, which may have different hiring needs, could expand your prospects.
Remember to leverage online platforms and local job fairs, and don’t hesitate to connect with other teachers or educators for insights and support. Your willingness to commute broadens your options significantly, so stay positive and proactive throughout the process. Best of luck on your journey; you’ve got this!
Insightful Perspective from a Fellow Londoner
Hi there! It’s fantastic to hear about your journey to becoming a history teacher in London. As someone who has been involved in the education sector here, I’d like to share a few thoughts that might help ease your concerns: