Teaching in secondary schools
Education and training
Teaching young children is a responsible and rewarding job. Secondary teachers can develop a child’s enthusiasm for learning, which in most cases will remain with them for the rest of their lives.
To teach in a Secondary school, you need to gain Qualified Teacher Status. This involves studying to at least degree level (if taking the BEd, BA or BSc with QTS route) or post graduate degree level (if taking the PGCE route). The qualifications required, conditions of service, and rates of pay for teachers in the Isle of Man are broadly in line with those for teachers in England.
This leaflet gives an overview of teaching in primary schools. Further information is available at www.gov.im.
The Teacher's role
For 11-18 year olds, the emphasis is on building both academic and vocational skills so as to prepare young people for their lifelong learning journey. At KS3, schools are developing a creative curriculum which espouses the learning dispositions laid out in the Island’s Essentials for Learning framework.
At KS4 and 5 Schools are bound by the range of qualifications they offer and the
curriculum and content which is ascribed to these courses. There are a wide range of subjects represented which offer both academic and vocational routes through these key stages.
The teacher in a secondary school facilitates learning by establishing positive relationships with students and by organising learning resources and environment effectively. In doing this the teacher is ensuring engagement, whilst igniting curiosity and enthusiasm for learning.
What it takes
Teachers of young children need:
- To like children and to have concern for their mental, physical and oral welfare
- A patient, tolerant and sensitive approach to the young
- A wide range of interests, abilities and subject knowledge to bring to the role of subject teacher and in most cases form tutor
- Good communication and listening skills
- A sense of humour
- Resilience in all aspects of life from physical and mental health to responding to challenge both from children, parents and colleagues
Pay and prospects
In 2016, newly-qualified teachers started on a minimum of £22,467 on a scale which progresses to £33,160. Salaries can be boosted by performance-related pay and payments for additional responsibilities.
With experience, there are good opportunities for promotion, e.g. to senior leader level which would carry considerable responsibility and can receivesalaries in excess of £55,000.
