Finding classroom experience for returning teachers
Schools will expect you to reflect on your recent school experience when you apply for a teaching role.
If you’re returning to teaching after a break, you should check the experience requirements of specific schools before you apply for a role.
To get more school experience, you should:
- observe lessons in subjects that you wish to teach
- see a variety of teaching styles, with students of different abilities and backgrounds
Contact a school
The Get information About Schools site has a list of all the educational establishments in England and Wales. You can filter your search by education phase and location to find a suitable school.
You may need to contact several schools in your area to arrange school experience.
Find experience using a subject organisation
Subject organisations can help you find classroom experience in a specific subject.
Maths Hubs
Maths Hubs is a program that connects mathematics professionals through a network of 40 hubs across the country. Each hub is led by an outstanding local school or college.
Institute of Physics
Institute of Physics is a support network for teachers and pupils of physics.
STEM Ambassadors
STEM Ambassadors inspire young people to enjoy science, technology, engineering and maths.
Find a job at a local school
You could consider applying for other roles at a local school to gain classroom experience.
Teaching assistant (TA)
TAs help teachers in primary or secondary schools, working one-on-one or with small groups of pupils.
TAs mainly support pupils in the classroom but may also take them to a nearby room or area for activities such as reading sessions or booster support for struggling students.
Cover supervisor
Cover supervisors teach planned lessons and tasks on a flexible schedule. They usually cover classes in different year groups and abilities.
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