Although the majority of students on a teaching degree course are school leavers, there are an increasing number of mature students embarking on teacher training courses in universities across the nation. This could be due to people wanting to retrain after working in other careers.
Mature students bring a wealth of life experience to the classroom that can be invaluable. Their previous career experiences often provide real-world examples that can enrich lessons and make learning more relevant for students.
Financially, there are several options available for mature students looking to train as teachers, including bursaries and scholarships for certain subjects. It's worth researching all available funding options before committing.
The transition back to studying can be challenging, but most universities offer excellent support for mature students, including study skills workshops, mentoring programmes, and flexible learning options.
If you're considering a career change into teaching, don't let age be a barrier. Schools value the diverse perspectives that mature entrants bring, and many of the most successful teachers started their careers later in life.