How to become an FE history teacher

Search for FE History Teaching Jobs here.

Further education (FE) history teachers will be expected to demonstrate their enthusiasm for history and convey this to their students. Within this role, you will be expected to show your commitment to high-quality learning, inspiring and motivating students.

Understanding history can help students understand the present. As such, the role of the FE history teacher is varied and places an emphasis on discussion, debate, reading and research.

The prospectus at Brighton Hove and Sussex Sixth Form College underlines why history should be an easy sell to students: “History is a highly esteemed qualification as it develops rigorous analytical, evaluative and communication skills which are transferable to further study of the subject.”

Day in the life

Trainee history teachers will learn the relevant skills needed to enhance student’s understanding of British and world history, as well as the current world climate.

The government’s website states that you will “discover how to pique students’ curiosity and help them evaluate arguments, analyse trends and appreciate the complexity of societies throughout time”.

In his diary of a new college lecturer for the Association of Colleges, Richard Doughty explains that if he could do one thing differently, it would be to be better prepared for lessons, making them more precise.

He stresses that he is “not there to baby-sit students” and it should be borne in mind that there should be a more mature relationship in FE when compared with secondary school teaching.

What skills and qualifications are needed to teach FE history?

As with any FE teaching role, an FE history teacher will be expected to have excellent communication and the ability to work as part of a team. Interpersonal skills and the enthusiasm required to teach a post-16 age group will be looked upon favourably.

You will usually need a degree in history before teaching it at FE level. However, don’t be put off if you don’t have a degree as you can also take a Cert Ed (Certificate in Education) which meets the Level 5 requirements. To pursue this route, you'll need a Level 3 qualification in history.

What Kind of Salary Can I Get as an FE History Teacher?

A newly qualified FE history teacher can expect to earn in the region of £19,000 to £23,000. This can rise to between £24,702 and £37,258 for a qualified history teacher, with higher rates paid to those teaching in London. As your career progresses, so too will your salary.

The benefits of being an FE history teacher are the Tuition Fee and Maintenance Loans designed to cover your tuition fees and help out with living costs.

Search for FE History Teaching Jobs here.