How do I become an English and Literature Teacher?

Question

I'm 21 and am currently in a full time job, however I've recently been giving serious thought about getting into teaching. I was going to sign up for University with the thought of taking a course that would put me on the path to becoming a Business Studies Teacher, as my A-Levels are in Double Award Business and ICT. My "passion" though seems to be in the subject of English, I enjoyed it in school and have GCSE's in both English and English lit.

I was wondering if anyone knew the first step I should take into a career in the subject of English (Secondary school). I'm from Ireland (Northern) which has a slightly different schooling system than Britain, but I'm fairly sure a University here would offer the same courses in teaching the subject.

Anyone know what the first step to take would be?

Answer 1

I'm not sure what the steps are where you live but perhaps you can contact a school where you would like to teach and ask them what the requirements are for certification. In the US, there are many ways to become a teacher. If you are in the university, they have programs for teachers that lead to certification. If you already have a degree in something else (such as business), you can take an alternative route to certification and these routes vary by state. Each state has a website and usually posts the certification requirements there. Things might be similar in the UK so I'd start with a local school for info or look at a government website to see what they tell you.

Best of luck. Teaching is a wonderful career.