Teaching...between a rock and a hard place!

Oldernotwiser

I wonder if you've had a look at the Girlguiding website?

http://www.girlguiding.org.uk/

There's lots on it about being a volunteer.

savvysammy

Also, another thought- have you contacted your preferred Uni ref the amount of experience required for a PGCE? MMU were happy to accept 2 weeks-although for primary competition is stiff so you'd need to prove your commitment. Not sure how old you are (sorry-never ask a lady her age!) but generally mature students (approx 25+) are viewed in a better light than someone who has just left uni and had no 'worldly wide experience'. My TA role is secondary and my experience at the youth group is with Primary age so its not a complete waste of time to look at volunteering for alternative ages!

audrey25

Yes, you will need to do initial teacher training (ITT) to be qualified to undertake primary school teaching. This will mean doing a Post Graduate Certificate in Education in school teaching. The TDA website, mentioned above, will give you all the information. Funding may be available for this and you may even get a 'golden hello' payment if they are still handing them out. I cannot post a link but it is the tda.gov.uk/Recruit/thetrainingprocess.aspx. page. There are many courses available and some institutions may even help you to find a post where you can undertake the experience you need to complete for the qualification. Contact a number of colleges and universities in your area and see what they have on offer.

You are unlikely to be able to get onto a course until February 2010 now so you might consider looking for a temporary post as a Teaching Assistant/Learning Support Assistant which I do not think needs any qualification (although qualifications are available). Jobs are advertised online and in the Times Educational Supplement.

As to the CRB check, your employer should apply for this so I don't know why your are being asked to provide one. If you got a TA/LSA job, the employer would apply for this and you can then take it with you to another employer if it has not expired.

You might also consider applying for jobs in FE Colleges to teach in your degree subject.

I have been in teaching for many years and can confirm that, while it is often hard, it is a very rewarding profession. May I wish you the best of luck in embarking on this career.

vanpiggy

Hello, the school doesn't necessarily have to have an enhanced CRB disclosure for all visitors, but they would have to risk assess you and ensure that you weren't alone with students. Its part of our schools policy for any visitors.