Teaching can be a good career, even if you do not have a university degree. In the UK, some routes can help you train as a teacher without having a degree at the start. How to become a teacher without a degree depends on the route you choose and your current skills or experience. You may need to work towards Qualified Teacher Status (QTS), which shows that you meet the standards to teach in schools. Some training routes also allow you to learn while working. This can be a useful choice if you want to gain real classroom experience.

In this guide, we explain how to become a teacher without a degree, the routes you can take, the entry requirements, and how long the process may take. 

Can You Become a Teacher Without a Degree?

Yes, you can start your journey into teaching without having a degree. However, starting teacher training and becoming a fully qualified teacher are not always the same thing. In England, most qualified teachers need Qualified Teacher Status (QTS). Some routes allow you to begin training without a degree, so you can gain skills and classroom experience as you learn.

However, the rules can change depending on where you live in the UK. England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland each have their own teacher training rules. Therefore, if you plan to teach in England, focus on the routes available there. The good news is that you have more than one option, so not having a degree does not mean you must give up on your teaching goal.

What Qualifications Do You Need to Become a Teacher?

You need some basic qualifications to become a teacher. The exact rules depend on the type of teacher you want to become.

  • GCSE English and Maths: Most teacher training routes require GCSEs in English and Maths at grade 4 or above.
  • GCSE Science: You usually need GCSE Science if you want to teach primary school children.
  • A degree: Most teacher training courses require a degree. However, some routes let you start training without one.
  • QTS: Qualified Teacher Status is usually needed to become a qualified teacher in England.
  • DBS check: You need a DBS check before you work with children. This helps keep children safe.
  • Useful skills: Patience, good communication, and confidence can help you become a good teacher. Experience with children can also help.

How to Become a Teacher Without a Degree?

You have a few ways to start teaching without a degree. The best choice depends on your goals.

Can You Train Through a Teaching Apprenticeship?

A Teacher Degree Apprenticeship lets you work and study together. You work in a school and earn money. At the same time, you study for a degree and train for QTS.

Can You Become a Teacher Through a Teaching Assistant Role?

A teaching assistant (TA) role gives you school experience. You work with children and learn how a classroom works. Later, you can use this experience to apply for teacher training. However, a TA job does not give you QTS.

Can You Become a Teacher Through School-Based Training?

School-based training lets you learn while working in a school. School Direct is one route you can choose. Some routes also let you earn while you train.

Can You Teach In a School Without QTS?

Yes, some school jobs do not need QTS. These include TA, cover supervisor, and instructor roles. However, these jobs do not make you a qualified teacher. If you want to become a qualified teacher, you normally need QTS.

Can You Become a Primary Teacher Without a Degree?

Yes, you may have a route into primary teaching without a degree. However, you still need to meet the training rules for primary teachers in England.

Primary teachers work with children across different subjects. So, you need good knowledge of English, Maths and Science. You usually need GCSEs in these subjects at grade 4 or above, or an equivalent qualification.

Most normal teacher training routes need a degree. However, the Teacher Degree Apprenticeship gives you another choice. You can work in a school, earn money, study for a degree, and train to become a teacher at the same time.

You also need to work towards Qualified Teacher Status (QTS). QTS allows you to work as a qualified teacher in many schools in England. So, if you do not have a degree now, do not worry. You can still explore routes that help you earn a degree while you train.

Can You Become a Secondary Teacher Without a Degree?

Yes, you can become a secondary teacher without having a degree first. However, the route you choose may depend on the subject you want to teach.

You need good subject knowledge. You should know your subject well before you teach it to pupils.

For example:

  • Maths: You need good maths skills and problem-solving skills.
  • English: You need good knowledge of English, reading and writing.
  • Science: You need a good understanding of subjects like biology, chemistry or physics.

You can also choose a degree apprenticeship. This lets you work in a school while studying for a degree. You can earn money while you train too. Another option is a school-based training route. You can learn in a real school and gain classroom experience.

So, you do not always need a degree before you start. However, you will usually need to gain the right qualifications and Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) to teach in many schools.

How Long Does It Take to Become a Teacher Without a Degree?

The time can vary based on the route you choose. Some routes take longer than others. A degree apprenticeship can take around three to four years. You work in a school while you study for your degree. You can also work towards QTS during your training.

Other teacher training routes may take about one year. However, these routes usually suit people who already have a degree. If you start without a degree, you may need more time. You may need to study for a degree and complete teacher training.

The good thing is that you can gain school experience while you train. This can help you feel more confident in the classroom.

How Much Does It Cost to Become a Teacher Without a Degree?

The cost can be very different. You may pay nothing, or you may pay around £30,000 in tuition fees. It depends on the route you choose. A Teacher Degree Apprenticeship can help you save money. You do not pay the usual tuition fees. Instead, you work in a school and study for a degree. You also earn a salary while you train. This means you can work, learn and earn at the same time.

You can also study for a BEd, BA or BSc with QTS at university. This route usually takes about three years. Tuition can cost around £9,250 to £9,790 each year. Student finance may help you pay these costs if you qualify.

Another choice is an FE or adult teaching course. These courses can cost around £400 to £1,000. They can suit people who want to teach adults or college students. You may also work while you study. So, the route you choose makes the biggest difference to the cost. If you want to keep costs low, a teacher degree apprenticeship may be a good option.

What Experience Can Help You Become a Teacher?

You do not always need teaching experience. However, some experience can help you feel more ready for the job.

  • Teaching assistant: Supporting pupils in class gives you a clear view of school life.
  • Volunteering in a school: This helps you understand daily routines and teacher responsibilities.
  • Tutoring: Helping someone learn can improve your communication and explanation skills.
  • Youth work: Working with young people builds confidence, patience and support skills.
  • Childcare: This experience helps you understand children’s needs, behaviour and development.
  • Sports coaching: Leading activities can develop teamwork, leadership and group management skills.
  • Working with young people: Roles involving children can build many useful teaching skills.

Even a little experience can help. It can also help you see if teaching is the right job for you.

What are the Pros And Cons of Becoming a Teacher Without a Degree?

Becoming a teacher without a degree can have many good points. However, it can also have some challenges. Knowing both sides can help you choose the right path.

What Are the Pros?

  • Earn while you train: Some routes let you work in a school while you train. You can work in a school and earn while you train. This can help you pay your daily costs.
  • Get classroom experience: You can learn in a real classroom from the start. You can watch teachers, work with pupils, and practise your teaching skills. This can help you feel more confident.
  • Good for a career change: This route can suit people who want a new career. For example, you may already have work experience in another field. You can use some of your skills when you move into teaching.
  • Save money: Some training routes do not have normal university fees. You may also earn money while you train. This can make the route easier to manage.

What Are the Cons?

  • You may still study for a degree: Some routes include degree study. This means you still need to attend lessons, complete tasks, and prepare for tests. You need to manage your work and study time well.
  • Some routes are hard to get into: Many people may want the same training place. So, you may need to meet certain entry rules. A good application can also improve your chances.
  • Training can be hard: Teaching takes time and effort. You may work in school, study at home, and prepare lessons. This can feel tiring, especially at the start.
  • You may need certain GCSEs: Some routes ask for specific GCSEs in subjects such as English and Maths. Other routes may have extra entry rules. So, check the rules before you apply.

Key Takeaways

If you want to know how to become a teacher without a degree, you still have options. However, “without a degree” can mean different things. Some routes let you study for a degree while you train.

You can choose routes such as a Teacher Degree Apprenticeship, a university course, or an adult teaching course. Your choice depends on what you want to teach and where you want to work. Some routes can lead to Qualified Teacher Status (QTS). However, not every route gives you QTS. So, always check the latest rules before you apply.

If you want school experience first, a Teaching Assistant Course can help you build useful skills. Explore the Teaching Assistant Course and take your first step towards a career in education.

FAQs

1. Can I train to be a teacher at 40?

  • Yes. 40 is not too old to become a teacher. You can choose a training route that suits your skills and education.

2. Can I become a teacher with only GCSEs?

  • Yes, you may have some options. For example, a Teacher Degree Apprenticeship lets you work and study for a degree.

3. What is the quickest way to become a teacher?

  • If you already have a degree, a one-year teacher training course can be a quick option. You can work towards QTS during the course.

4. Can I train to be a teacher and get paid?

  • Yes. Some training routes let you work and earn money while you train. A Teacher Degree Apprenticeship is one example.

5. Is 50 too old to be a teacher?

  • No. 50 is not too old to become a teacher. Your life and work experience can also help you in the classroom.

6. What’s the hardest age to teach?

  • Many teachers find teenagers harder to teach. They may have behaviour and learning issues. However, every age group has different challenges.