Working in Further Education you will teach young people and adults at different ages and stages of their lives. You will prepare and deliver lessons to students of different ages, abilities and backgrounds in large and small groups. Some may wish to learn a trade or vocational skills whilst others may wish to complete a pre-university course, upskill or retrain to enhance their career prospects. Others engage in adult education for personal development and accessing learning opportunities. You may work in a college of further education, adult education or community centre, adult literacy, evening classes or a prison. Depending on your subject matter your lectures may include practical sessions in a laboratory, workshop or studio. The role is very flexible offering full or part-time options. With nearly two thousand further education courses available in seven different career sectors opportunities exist in every area.
Your students are often balancing part-time work and family responsibilities so are highly motivated and determined to complete their studies. As their tutor you will support them academically, giving feedback on their progress, offering guidance and encouragement. You may also provide pastoral care for personal or financial difficulties that impact on their course of study. You will support them in their work experience which is an integral part of further education courses. You will prepare them for external examinations in order to achieve their qualifications.
To register as a Further Education teacher you must have completed a minimum of a Level 8 Hons Bachelor’s degree (usually four years) or a three year Level 7 Ordinary Bachelor’s degree plus three years work experience in an industry or training role relevant to your qualifications. In addition you must complete a Further Education teacher education qualification (TEQ) which is accredited by the Teaching Council. Full or part-time study options are available. If you have the qualification but not the TEQ you are required to complete this within three years to maintain your registration.
Working in this sector is challenging yet a highly rewarding and satisfying career. You will meet your students where they are at in their educational journey. You will see their confidence grow as they achieve their goals and gain skills that will stand to them for the rest of their lives. Further information available at Lecturer / Teacher- Further Education and The Teaching Council
TEFL
TEFL is one of the fastest growing sectors of international education with 1.5 billion people learning English worldwide. If you love language, enjoy meeting new people and would like the opportunity to travel and experience different cultures then Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) is a flexible career option with great opportunities.
You may work in a language school, university or college, private tuition, from home or anywhere in the world. Qualifications vary ranging from a TEFL certificate, TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) and the most widely recognised CELTA (Certificate in English Language Teaching to Adults).
There are many courses available so it is important to research your options, ensure your course is accredited, internationally recognised and meets your needs before signing up. Some jobs will require an undergraduate qualification in addition to TEFL certification to obtain a work permit abroad. Language skills have become increasingly important in our globalised world. Teaching English to students of differing ages, nationalities and backgrounds is very fulfilling knowing that you will have contributed to their personal and professional development. Career paths include pursuing further teaching qualifications, working in education and management or setting up your own business.
Further information on a career in this sector is available from: