Secondary school English teachers teach English language and literature to children aged 11 to 18 years. Much of their work involves preparing pupils to sit GCSE and A level examinations.
Teaching demands a high level of subject knowledge, meaning that all candidates for secondary school English teaching jobs must have GCSE passes in English and maths, a bachelors degree in English, and a teaching qualification that confers Qualified Teacher Status (QTS), such as a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE). Prospective English teachers must also undergo a criminal records check and be able to show prior teaching experience.
Secondary school English teachers must have the energy and enthusiasm needed to motivate their pupils to develop their knowledge of English language and literature. They should be able to relate to their pupils and be able to effectively manage pupils displaying challenging behaviour.
State-maintained high school schools are the main employers of trained secondary school English teachers. English teacher jobs can also be found in colleges, independent schools and young offenders' institutions. Full-time, part-time and temporary (supply teacher) positions are advertised through many channels, including recruitment agencies.
English teachers just out of university can expect to receive a yearly salary of around £20,000. Salaries may be higher for teachers in inner London. With experience, English teachers may become head of their department.