Choosing Your Path: Primary or Secondary School Teaching?
Teaching is a rewarding career, but deciding between primary and secondary education can be challenging. Each path offers unique opportunities, but the different phases can require different skills and interests. Here’s a guide to help you decide:
Why Choose Primary School Teaching?
Primary school teachers typically work with children aged 4–11, covering a broad range of subjects. This role is ideal if:
- You enjoy variety: You’ll teach multiple subjects, offering a diverse and dynamic workload.
- You love working with younger children: You'll lay the foundations for literacy and numeracy skills during critical years of development.
- You’re nurturing and patient: You’ll play a crucial role in shaping children’s early learning experiences and confidence.
- You prefer a close-knit classroom: Primary teachers often have the same class all year, allowing you to build strong relationships.
Why Choose Secondary School Teaching?
Secondary school teachers specialise in one or two subjects, working with students aged 11–18. This role is perfect if:
- You’re passionate about a specific subject: Share your expertise and inspire students who are diving deeper into specialised areas.
- You enjoy working with teenagers: Support young people as they explore their interests and plan their futures.
- You thrive on intellectual challenge: Secondary teaching often involves more complex material and advanced discussions.
- You’re comfortable with variety in interaction: Teach different groups throughout the day, balancing variety with a structured timetable.
Things to consider
- Your personality and interests: Do you enjoy working with younger children or older students?
- Career progression: Secondary teaching offers opportunities like becoming a head of department, while primary schools may allow for leadership over year groups or entire schools.
- Your subject strengths: If you have a degree or passion in a specific area, secondary teaching might suit you better.
Gaining Experience
To make an informed choice, try volunteering or observing in both primary and secondary schools. First-hand experience will help you see which environment feels right for you. Explore our Taster Days.
Your Next Steps
Once you’ve made your decision, explore training routes such as a PGCE (Postgraduate Certificate in Education) or School Direct. Both primary and secondary pathways lead to Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) and a fulfilling teaching career.
