How to become a secondary school teacher

Becoming a secondary school teacher is a rewarding career path that allows you to inspire and educate young minds during a pivotal stage in their development. Whether you're a recent graduate, a teaching assistant, or someone looking to change careers, the following guide will walk you through the different paths you could take. It is important to choose the right path for you. Here, Tes Institute share some of the main routes to show you what’s available for you, and to help you make that decision.  

Essential teacher qualifications

To teach in a UK secondary school, you’ll need: 

• GCSEs in Maths and English at 4/C or above  

• A bachelor’s degree in a subject related to the subject you wish to teach 

•  Qualified Teacher Status (QTS).  

QTS is essential for teaching in most schools in the UK. This can be achieved through a variety of routes such as the ones listed below.

School-centred ITT 

Taking an ITT is the most common and structured route into teaching. It’s designed to prepare you with the theoretical knowledge, practical skills, and real-world classroom experience needed to become an effective secondary school teacher. This is done through academic study alongside a school placement that you will be supported and mentored through. 

There are several types of ITT programmes, but they all lead to QTS, and many also offer a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE): 

• School-Based ITT: Delivered in partnership with schools, this route allows you to train on the job while studying part-time. Tes Institute’s Initial Teacher Training (ITT) programme works with partner schools, such as Essex Schools, to support them in delivering their training, offering a flexible blend of online learning and in-school experience.  

• University-Led ITT: These are typically full-time, one-year courses based at a university with school placements included. They’re ideal if you prefer a more academic environment. 

Postgraduate Teaching Apprenticeship 

PGTA is a salaried route into teaching, ideal for those who want to earn while they train. You’ll work in a school as an unqualified teacher while completing your training, which leads to QTS. Tes Institute supports schools and trainees through this route with a blend of online learning and in-school mentoring.  

Assessment Only Route 

If you already have substantial teaching experience—typically two years or more—you may be eligible for the  assessment only route. This pathway allows you to demonstrate your teaching competence without undergoing a full training programme. 

PGCE 

The Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) is an academic qualification that complements your teacher training and enhances your professional development. While not mandatory for teaching in England state schools (QTS is the essential requirement), many trainees choose to pursue a PGCE alongside their Initial Teacher Training (ITT) to deepen their understanding of educational theory and gain an internationally recognised qualification. Holding a PGCE can also support future applications for leadership roles or further study, such as an MA in Education. 

Getting teacher experience 

Experience in a school setting is invaluable. It helps you understand the classroom environment and strengthens your application for teacher training. 

Work as a Teaching Assistant (TA) 

Starting out as a Teaching Assistant (TA) is one of the most accessible and insightful ways to enter the world of education. As a TA, you’ll support teachers in delivering lessons, help manage classroom behaviour and work closely with students who need additional support. This role gives you a front-row seat to the realities of teaching, helping you build confidence and classroom awareness. 

Many aspiring teachers use this route to gain experience before applying for teacher training. It’s also a great way to confirm that teaching is the right path for you. 

Tes Institute offers a teaching assistant apprenticeship, which allows you to earn while you learn. This programme is ideal for those new to education or looking to formalise their experience with a nationally recognised qualification. It can also be a stepping stone to further training, such as the Straight to Teaching programme. 

Straight to Teaching 

If you're already teaching but don’t quite meet the Teachers’ Standards yet, this tailored teacher development course will help you to build evidence and experience to prepare for Assessment Only. This flexible teacher development course is tailored around your in-school role, helping you build evidence and confidence to progress to the Assessment Only route to QTS. 

The programme is tailored to your individual needs and includes: 

• A personalised development plan 

• Online learning modules 

• In-school mentor support 

• Regular progress reviews 

It typically takes from 1.5 to 5 terms to complete, depending on your experience and readiness. This route is especially popular with career changers and support staff who want to transition into fully qualified teaching roles without leaving their school. It’s also a popular course for those working in SEND. 

Volunteering in schools or tutoring can also provide valuable insights and references. 

Other essential skills for teachers

While qualifications and classroom experience are crucial, what truly sets great secondary school teachers apart are the soft skills and professional attributes they bring to the role, as well as their subject matter expertise. These are the qualities that help you connect with students, gain respect, manage a classroom effectively, and thrive in a dynamic school environment. 

Strong subject knowledge 

You need to be confident and competent in the subject you teach. This means not only understanding the curriculum but also being able to explain complex concepts in a way that engages and inspires students. If you're switching subjects or need to refresh your knowledge, Tes Institute offers  Subject Knowledge Enhancement (SKE) courses  in key areas like maths, physics, chemistry, and computing. 

Classroom management 

Managing behaviour and maintaining a positive learning environment is one of the most challenging—and rewarding—parts of teaching. Effective classroom management involves: 

• Setting clear expectations 

• Building mutual respect 

• Using positive reinforcement 

• Staying calm and consistent under pressure 

These skills often develop with experience, but many ITT programmes, including those from Tes Institute, provide training and strategies to help you build confidence in this area. 

Communication and empathy 

Great teachers are great communicators. You’ll need to: 

• Explain ideas clearly 

• Listen actively to students and colleagues 

• Adapt your communication style to suit different learners 

Empathy is equally important. Understanding your students’ backgrounds, challenges, and motivations helps you build trust and create a supportive classroom culture. 

Resilience and adaptability 

Teaching is a dynamic profession. No two days are the same, and things don’t always go to plan. Resilience helps you bounce back from setbacks, while adaptability allows you to respond to changing circumstances—whether it’s a new curriculum, a challenging class, or a last-minute timetable change. 

Organisation and time management 

From lesson planning and marking to meetings and parent communication, teaching involves juggling multiple responsibilities. Being organised helps you stay on top of your workload and maintain a healthy work-life balance. 

Reflective practice 

The best teachers are lifelong learners. Reflecting on your lessons, seeking feedback, and being open to new ideas are all part of growing professionally. Many Tes Institute programmes encourage reflective practice as a core part of teacher development. 

Become a secondary school teacher with Tes Institute 

Now you know how to become a secondary school teacher, it’s time to put that plan into action. Tes Institute provides a wide range of flexible, online and blended learning options to support your journey into teaching. Whether you're just starting out or looking to formalise your experience, there's a Tes course to suit your need.  

Alternatively, if you are still interested in exploring your options, take a look at our page on how to become a primary school teacher instead. If you have any questions or need additional guidance and advice, contact us and we’ll be happy to help.