Cecily Zamora
A law degree can be a great starting point for a career in teaching. While it may not be possible to teach law at the secondary school level with a law degree, law graduates can pursue a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) to teach other subjects at the primary or secondary school level. It is important to note that the requirements for teaching certain subjects may vary, and some subjects, like English, may require applicants to have a degree that is at least 50% focused on the subject they intend to teach. However, a law degree can still be a valuable asset when applying for a PGCE, especially in competitive subjects. Additionally, a law degree can also be a pathway to teaching law at the further education (FE) level, which includes teaching young people and adults in FE colleges.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| PGCE subject | Maths, Computer Science, English, History, Religious Education, Social Science, Law (at A-level) |
| PGCE type | PGCE with QTS, PGCE without QTS |
| PGCE benefits | Better pay, support, and understanding of teaching practices, educational research and theory; internationally recognised qualification |
| PGCE requirements | Bachelor's degree, relevant GCSEs, teacher training |
| Other requirements | Commitment to complying with continuing professional development (CPD) requirements, membership of the Institute for Learning |
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What You'll Learn
Teaching English with a law degree
If you have a law degree and are interested in teaching English, there are a few things you should know. Firstly, teaching English is a competitive field, and you may find it challenging to secure a place on a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) course or to find employment as a qualified teacher. However, having a law degree can be advantageous, as it is a respected qualification that may set you apart from other applicants.
To increase your chances of being accepted onto a PGCE course for English, it is recommended that your degree is closely related to the subject you intend to teach. Some sources suggest that your degree should be at least 50% focused on English to meet the entry requirements for an English PGCE. However, this requirement may have been removed recently, and there are exceptions, such as the Teach First scheme, which accepts applicants with non-specialist degrees. If you have an A-level in English, this may also strengthen your application.
To improve your chances of being accepted onto a PGCE course and finding employment as an English teacher, it is advisable to gain relevant experience. This could include spending time in primary and secondary school classrooms to understand the educational context and develop your teaching skills. Additionally, you may want to consider undertaking a Subject Knowledge Enhancement (SKE) course in English to enhance your subject knowledge and demonstrate your commitment to teaching.
While it may be challenging, it is possible to transition from a law degree to teaching English with a PGCE. By gaining relevant experience, demonstrating your subject knowledge, and exploring different pathways, such as the Teach First scheme, you can increase your chances of success in this career path.
Please note that the requirements and competitiveness of English PGCE courses may vary depending on your location and the specific entry requirements of the course providers. It is always advisable to contact the PGCE providers directly and research the specific requirements and expectations for their programmes.
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History PGCE vs Law degree
If you have a law degree and are considering teaching, you may be able to pursue a History PGCE or teach English. However, it is important to note that the requirements and ease of entry may vary depending on your location and the specific programme you are interested in.
Some teacher training providers have been instructed to accept all applicants, and having no prior teaching experience may not be a barrier to entry. Additionally, you don't need to be a qualified teacher to teach in academies and private schools, and some schools will not employ anyone without a relevant degree and PGCE.
According to some sources, it may be challenging to pursue a History PGCE with a law degree. History is an oversubscribed subject, and some programmes require applicants to have a degree that is at least 50% focused on the subject they intend to teach. However, other sources suggest that having an A-level in History and agreeing to additional reading may be sufficient for acceptance onto a History PGCE programme.
On the other hand, English PGCE programmes may be more accessible to those with a law degree. While English is also a competitive subject, having a degree with some English literature content and an English literature A-level may be sufficient for acceptance. Additionally, some English PGCE providers may be willing to accept applicants with a strong A-level in English and no degree in the subject.
Ultimately, the decision to pursue a History PGCE or teach English with a law degree may depend on your specific circumstances, the requirements of the programme you are interested in, and the advice of the PGCE providers you contact. It is always best to contact the PGCE Office or the specific programme you are interested in to determine the appropriateness of your degree and explore any additional requirements or options available to you.
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PGCE without QTS
A Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) is an academic qualification that can be obtained through teacher training. It is not a requirement to become a qualified teacher in England, but it can help develop teaching skills and knowledge. Obtaining a PGCE without Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) means you will not be qualified to teach in most primary, secondary and special schools in England, although some schools will still employ teachers without QTS.
The PGCE Non-QTS course at UEL is typically undertaken by those who are in training towards QTS or have already obtained it through alternative routes. It is suitable for applicants in primary or secondary school settings, but it is not eligible for government funding. UEL offers dedicated careers support and further opportunities, such as volunteering and industry networking.
Similarly, ARU's PGCE course offers varied and interactive course content, a personal tutor, careers advice, and the flexibility to study around your other commitments. It can help you develop reflective skills, which can be valuable in job interviews and improve your practice as a classroom teacher.
It is important to note that while a PGCE without QTS can be beneficial, those with QTS may have advantages during their training and career, such as better pay and support. Additionally, to teach in England, non-UK teachers will need to meet certain requirements, including substantial teaching experience, passing criminal and professional safeguarding checks, and demonstrating a high standard of written and spoken English.
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Teach First scheme
The Teach First scheme is a two-year, fully-funded teacher training programme that offers graduates a route into teaching. The programme is designed to train exceptional teachers and leaders, placing them in challenging schools across England to make a difference for children facing the biggest barriers to learning.
The Teach First Leadership Development Programme (LDP) is an employment-based route for graduates to work towards Qualified Teacher Status (QTS). The programme leads to a Postgraduate Diploma in Education (PGDE), which is similar to a PGCE but contains up to 120 credits at the master's degree level. Graduates can also earn the credits required for a full master's degree after completing their teacher training.
To be eligible for the Teach First Leadership Development Programme, applicants must hold a 2:1 undergraduate degree or above in a relevant national curriculum subject. Applicants must also have achieved a standard equivalent to grade C/4 or above in GCSE English and mathematics. If intending to teach pupils aged three to 11, a standard equivalent to a grade C/4 or above in a GCSE science subject is also required. Non-academic requirements include a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check and a declaration of criminal convictions.
Participants in the Teach First programme will earn a salary from the first day in the classroom, with a starting salary of over £20,000 in the first year, rising to £30,000 in the second year, depending on location. After the programme, salaries could reach £56,959 in inner London or £46,525 elsewhere, based on career progression.
The Teach First scheme has been voted one of the best opportunities for graduates for the past 15 years, offering quality training and the chance to develop valuable skills for future career progression.
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Teaching Law A-Level
Teaching Law at the A-Level is a challenging yet rewarding career path. Here are some insights and considerations for those interested in pursuing this path with a law degree:
Qualifications and Requirements:
To teach Law at the A-Level, you will typically need a degree in Law or a related field. While some schools may require a postgraduate teaching qualification, such as a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE), others may offer on-the-job training or accept other qualifications. It is important to check the specific requirements of the school or education authority in your region. Additionally, gaining work experience in a secondary school setting is highly recommended before applying for teaching positions. This will not only help you understand the day-to-day realities of teaching but also demonstrate your commitment to the profession.
Job Market and Competition:
The academic job market, especially for Law teachers, can be extremely competitive. It is essential to be flexible in your job search and consider applying to multiple schools or locations. Your first teaching job might not be your dream position, but it can provide valuable experience and open doors to future opportunities. Additionally, having a respected degree, such as Law, may give you an advantage in the application process, especially for subjects with a shortage of qualified teachers.
Teaching Responsibilities:
As an A-Level Law teacher, your primary role will be to plan and prepare lessons that align with the curriculum. You will deliver engaging and informative lessons, assign homework, and assess and grade your students' work. Monitoring student progress and providing support to ensure their academic success are also key aspects of the role. You will also guide them in their transition from further education to higher education or their chosen careers.
Professional Development:
To excel as an A-Level Law teacher, it is important to continuously develop your teaching skills and stay updated with changes in the field of Law. This may involve pursuing further qualifications, attending workshops or conferences, or engaging in scholarly projects alongside your teaching duties. Additionally, building a network with other Law teachers or professionals in the field can be beneficial for sharing best practices and staying informed about the latest developments in legal education.
Subject Knowledge Enhancement (SKE):
If your Law degree did not cover a substantial amount of content related to the A-Level syllabus, you may need to undertake a Subject Knowledge Enhancement (SKE) course. This will ensure that you have the necessary subject knowledge to teach effectively and confidently. SKE courses are typically completed before starting a PGCE or other teacher training programs.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can. Many teacher training providers offer a PGCE. You can also teach in academies, private schools, and further education colleges without a PGCE.
You can teach a variety of subjects with a law degree, depending on your other qualifications. Some subjects you could teach include English, history, maths, computer science, and law itself.
PGCE stands for Postgraduate Certificate in Education. It is a postgraduate qualification in education that can help you develop your teaching skills and knowledge.
No, you do not need a PGCE to be a qualified teacher in England. You need Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) to teach in most primary, secondary, and special schools in England. However, some schools will employ teachers without QTS.
You can get QTS through undergraduate or postgraduate teacher training. You can also achieve QTS through the Teach First program, which places you in challenging schools and may be a good option for those without a degree in the subject they want to teach.
