People who work in education and training give people of all ages and background opportunities to learn and develop. Most teachers work in schools, teaching further education to students aged 16 to 19, and some adults.
Lecturers work with students studying for higher qualifications such as degrees. Trainers help people learn the skills they need in their working lives. Some education roles are concerned with ensuring that standards are upheld in education and work-based learning. Finally, some support staff work directly with students, such as teaching assistants. Others, such as administrative staff, make sure that education facilities run smoothly.
Most jobs in the education and training industry are based in schools, colleges and training centers. Certain jobs include working outdoors some of the time, such as lunchtime supervisors. Administrative staff are based in offices. Some jobs in this sector involve working around 37 hours per week, Monday through Friday. Teaching, and some other school-related jobs, are term-time only, but often require working evenings and weekends.
Employers include state and private sector schools, colleges, universities, training providers, prisons and youth offenders’ institutions, and in the armed forces.
There are around 475,000 registered teachers working in England. Around 800,000 people are employed in the learning sector in England, including people working in further education and work-based learning. Jobs are available throughout the UK.
It is important to enjoy working with people and having great organizational skills when working in the education and training industry. Oral and written communication skills are vital, and knowledge of specific subjects is often essential. The ability to motivate others and give constructive criticism are also important.
Most jobs in education require a degree or postgraduate certification. School teachers normally hold Qualified Teacher Status. Related experience is more important than qualifications for other jobs, such as a learning mentor.
Continuing professional development is vital for teachers and lecturers. Other roles can include on-the-job training and the opportunity to work towards qualifications, such as NVQs. Some employers also offer Apprenticeships.
There are many opportunities for promotion in the education and training industry, as well as opportunities to work overseas. While most jobs require relevant degrees, many only require experience, especially in private training facilities.
Overall, the education and training industry is a constantly growing field with jobs available everywhere in the United Kingdom and abroad. Opportunities for advancement are abundant, as well as other job-related benefits, such as vacations and health coverage.
