How to Become a School Teacher

Co-authored by Courtney Copriviza

Last Updated: September 10, 2021 References

Teaching school is one of the most fun and rewarding jobs out there, but getting that license and first job sure can be a daunting task. However, there are some ways to make it an easier ride.

Part 1

Part 1 of 2:

Getting an Education

You will need to at a minimum have a secondary/high school degree in order to get the further education necessary to become a teacher. In some countries, certain grades from these school years are necessary. In other words, the better you do, the better your chances.
Most teaching programs won't even consider admitting you if you don't have a reasonable amount of experience working with kids. Volunteer in a classroom, doing Big Brothers, Big Sisters, or get a job at a daycare or other child-friendly facility.

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Graduate from university. You will need to get a higher degree beyond the basic secondary/high school degree. This should preferably be a degree in education, but some countries and states have a bit of a leeway on that. Find out the requirements for your area. Again, the better your grades, the better your chances. ^{[1]
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- You can also get a Masters degree, but you don't need this to become a teacher. ^{[2]
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  Expert Source
  
  Courtney Copriviza
  Elementary School Teacher
  
  Expert Interview. 18 June 2021.}
- Some people get their Masters degrees during their first few teaching years. ^{[3]
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  Expert Source
  
  Courtney Copriviza
  Elementary School Teacher
  
  Expert Interview. 18 June 2021.}
There are usually a series of tests you will need to complete in addition to your degree, which will allow you to become a teacher. Complete these tests and anything else necessary to get your certification. ^{[4]
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Usually, a period of student teaching is necessary before you can get your certification. There may also be other requirements as well, however. Most areas will require, for example, a background check and fingerprinting. All necessary requirements will be made clear to you upon completion of your certification.

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Part 2

Part 2 of 2:

Deciding Where to Teach

This is the basic, state-funded school where the majority of students will be found. This requires the most amount of effort and training but tends to lead to more secure employment and benefits. ^{[5]
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At-risk schools are low-income schools where the students are at risk of falling into a life of drugs or crime, never finishing school, and generally going on to very hard lives. Often times, these schools have students who are second-language learners (ELLs). Teaching at schools like these can be more rewarding but is also more challenging and dangerous. If you go on to teach at schools like these, there is the possibility of your student debt being forgiven. Many programs like these are in-place across the world. ^{[6]
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Private schools are those run by companies or churches which often require perhaps a better education but often fewer hoops to jump through. A formal certification may not be necessary, but a high degree often is. These teaching jobs can pay better and the students will generally be better behaved. ^{[7]
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If you find that perhaps children aren't right for you, you can teach at a college instead. This usually requires at least a Masters degree, and most times a PhD. The pay is sometimes better, but the teachers have fewer resources available to them.
If you want to avoid getting proper credentials but you have a degree in an appropriate field, you can get a job as a teacher at an online school. This will probably not pay as well, there will be less job security, and you may not have access to benefits, but you can work from home and your schedule may be more flexible.
If you find that these routes are all too challenging for you, you can also just be a private tutor. You can join a tutoring center or you can work for yourself. This does not pay well but provides much more flexibility and one-on-one contact.
This is a letter you write stating your wish to apply for a particular position. Only include this if it is asked for.
These are crucial for getting a job. Have your references written out and formatted properly. Also, make sure that all of your references know you're using them as a reference!
Get samples of lesson plans you've written, your students' work, sample items you've used in lessons, and books you like to work with in your classroom. The schools will wish to see this material. ^{[8]
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Every school, area and country have different requirements for applying teachers so look out for other materials that may be called for in the application.
You can find positions through the district website, non-profit organizations, job fairs, and other places as well. It depends on the type of position you're looking for. Most teaching programs will have resources to help you find a job when you graduate. ^{[9]
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This is important. Go in looking like a pro and make a great impression. You can be the most qualified teacher in the world but if you have a giant stain on the front of your shirt and you show up late, you're not getting the job. ^{[10]
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Do I have to have a high school diploma to become a teacher?

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Yes, and in most instances you will also need at least a bachelor's degree in Education as well as state certification.

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What college do I have to go to in order to be a teacher?

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You could attend any school offering the degree you need.

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At what age do people usually get their teacher's certification?

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You can usually get a certificate at age 22-24 (assuming you got into college at age 18).

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Tips

As you practice or are still learning at school even, write down things you may have done differently if you were the one speaking at the front of the room. For instance, you may like an assignment the teacher gave out and when you go on to teach (after you become one) you could give the same assignment.

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Attend state, regional, or national conferences while you are still a student. The rates are deeply discounted, and you will make valuable contacts. You will learn a lot about new teaching methods, and you will be inspired. It also looks great on your resume later.

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Join a professional organization that specializes in the teaching career. Be sure to get the student discount and subscribe to the journals. You will learn a lot, get ideas and inspiration, and impress people in school and job interviews if you are keeping abreast of the latest in your profession.

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Warnings

It's really not as bad or as wonderful as various people will make it out to be. The best way to find out if it's really for you is to get some experience.

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[1]

[2]

Expert Source

Courtney Copriviza
Elementary School Teacher

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[4]

[5]

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How to Become a School Teacher

Steps

Getting an Education

Deciding Where to Teach

Community Q&A

Video

Tips

Warnings

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References

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