Are you thinking of becoming a teacher but feel like you want to find out more first? A series of three-day taster courses are being held this autumn where you can establish whether this is right career for you.
The courses are aimed at people thinking about teaching maths or modern languages or from groups who are under-represented in teaching - men, minority ethnic groups and people with disabilities.
If you think that could be you, now is the time to register. Call the Teaching Information Line on 0845 6000 991 or visit www.tda.gov.uk/Recruit.aspx
Wales, meanwhile, runs its own course called Prepare to Teach - call 02920 397911 to find out more..
Anyone wanting to teach in England and Wales must complete initial teacher training (ITT). There are many different types of ITT course – the one you take will be specific to the age group and, if you want to teach at secondary level, the subject that you want to teach. All courses cover the principles of teaching along with practical experience in the classroom.
There are several different ways you can complete your ITT: alongside a degree, straight after a degree, as a part-time course alongside work or as a full-time course. The option that is right for you will depend on your circumstances. You will need a degree and qualified teacher status (QTS) to become a teacher.