By Mia Cavanagh, current MA English Literature student & BA English graduate 2025
In this blog, Mia provides some insights into the various pathways into teaching and the support on offer from the Careers Service.
What advice would you give to current students who are interested in a career in teaching?
I knew that I wanted to get into teaching before I started my degree, having come from a family that really sees the value in education. I started working as a tutor for Explore Learning between the end of my A-Levels and the beginning of uni, then continued to work part-time throughout my BA and MA. Getting that hands-on experience in the education sector became invaluable, and really helped assure me that it was the right vocation for me. I would say it’s absolutely essential that you get as much experience in teaching and tutoring as you can, so that you feel prepared and comfortable when you first step into the classroom! We are so lucky at Royal Holloway to be so connected with local tutoring agencies and close to schools that are always looking to take on students.
Explore the different routes to find your best fit
Not all routes into teaching are the same, and it’s really important that you explore your options before committing to one. I know some people who are opting to go straight to a uni pathway to acquire PGCE and QTS; others who are going straight into school placements as teaching assistants; and some, like me, who are doing a SCITT (School-Centred Initial Teacher Training). Each provides unique benefits and insights into teaching and offers different levels of support and formal qualifications. I decided to go for a competitive SCITT with United Teaching after I did a 3-week government-backed internship over the summer with them. My previous experience and commitment to education really helped my application stand out, and prepared me for a very intense year ahead!
Use the Careers Service and all the online tools
I have worked part-time as a Digital Assistant for the Careers Service since the second year of my undergraduate degree, so I was lucky enough to gain an insight into just how many resources there are on the Careers Moodle and Careers Portal! The Teaching Sector Week in November was fantastic, as it introduced me to a range of amazing employers and potential pathways into teaching. They also offer CV checks, in-person and through online tools, which I used extensively whilst applying for jobs. Even if all you need is a quick chat, they’re there to support you, and I wouldn’t have secured as much confidence if it weren’t for them!