Ready for a new direction?
Changing careers is a big decision. You may already have years of experience, professional knowledge and skills that you can bring into the classroom — and you may also have questions about what it takes to retrain as a teacher.
At i2i, we welcome career changers and understand that your route into teaching will be different from someone coming straight from university. We’ll help you build on the experience you already have while developing the knowledge, skills and confidence you need to become an effective teacher.
Why teaching?
Teaching offers the opportunity to make a real difference to young people, share your knowledge and experience, and help shape their future. No two days are the same, and the variety of the role brings new challenges, opportunities and rewards.
Your previous career can become a valuable asset in the classroom. Whether you're bringing industry knowledge to life, connecting your subject to the real world or drawing on the professional skills you've developed over the years, your experience can give you a different perspective to share with your pupils.
For many career changers, teaching is an opportunity to use what they already know in a new way — while building a career with purpose and lasting impact.
Training with i2i
We've been training career changers for many years, so we understand the particular opportunities and challenges that can come with moving from an established career into teaching.
We recognise that you're bringing valuable experience into the classroom while also learning a new profession. Once you start your training,e'll help you build on your existing knowledge, skills and experience while developing the professional knowledge, pedagogy and classroom practice you need to become an effective teacher.
Our school-centred training means you'll be in school from day one, learning alongside experienced teachers and developing your practice through real classroom experience.
You'll have a team around you throughout your training, including experienced mentors, tutors and pastoral support. They'll provide regular feedback, guidance and encouragement as you develop your classroom practice.
Alongside your time in school, our research-informed training connects educational theory with what you experience in the classroom. You'll develop the knowledge and understanding to make informed decisions about your teaching and understand not only what works, but why.
Your programme leads to Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) and a PGCE, awarded by Bath Spa University.
Making the transition into teaching
Changing career is a significant decision, and we understand that there is a lot to consider before taking the next step. You may be thinking about the financial implications of retraining, your existing commitments and how your experience will translate into a new profession.
We provide clear information about fees, funding and financial support, so you can understand the options available to you. We also recognise that every career changer's circumstances are different, and our team is here to answer your questions and help you understand what teacher training could look like for you.
There are several ways you can find out more before applying:
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Spend time in a school – our School Experience Programme gives you the opportunity to see teaching first-hand, observe lessons and talk to teachers about their day-to-day roles.
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Find out about funding – explore the fees, bursaries, scholarships and other financial support that may be available to you.
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Check your subject knowledge – if your degree or previous experience doesn't provide all the subject knowledge needed for the subject you want to teach, Subject Knowledge Enhancement (SKE) may be an option.
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Come to an information seminar – find out more about teacher training, ask questions and hear from the i2i team.
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Talk to us – if you're unsure about your qualifications, experience or whether teaching could be right for you, we're happy to help you understand your options.
Our support starts from the moment you get in touch. Whether you're at the very beginning of exploring teaching or ready to apply, you'll have a team around you to help you take the next step.
Have a question or ready to find out more?
Complete our Enquiry Form and a member of the i2i team will be in touch. We can answer your questions, talk through your circumstances and help you understand the steps involved in becoming a teacher.
Additional support for career changers
Now Teach is a professional network supporting experienced people who are considering a move into teaching. It provides information, guidance and a community for people exploring or making the transition into teaching.
You may find Now Teach a useful additional source of information and support alongside the guidance available from i2i.
