Teach construction
Help students build a future with solid foundations by becoming a Further Education tutor in construction.
This sector needs huge numbers of teachers to sustain the level of growth required in the UK. Because of this, it’s a role that’s in high demand throughout many Further Education (FE) colleges.
Why teach construction?
Teaching construction courses within FE is far from a traditional classroom experience.
Colleges are looking for teachers with industry experience in construction that can teach students the skills they need to succeed.
You could teach in workshops or on-site locations, helping your learners to develop the hands-on, practical skills you’ve gained within your trade.
Whether that’s in bricklaying, plumbing, carpentry or other areas of construction.
You could even teach courses in specialist topics such as bathroom installation or shop fitting, as well as more general skills such as on-site health and safety. Some of the courses you could teach include:
- carpentry and joinery
- electrical installation
- plastering
- brickwork
Typical contracts for a teaching role will be around 35 hours a week. Although there are options for part-time or flexible working hours too.
This means you can teach alongside working in your chosen industry.
How can I start teaching?
To start teaching in construction in FE you will need a minimum of two years’ experience of working in the industry.
Colleges are interested in the real world skills and knowledge you have learned that can be shared with students.
Once you have industry experience you can start applying for teaching jobs in construction.
“Teaching in FE is an amazing way to marry my love of the construction sector with my passion for sharing my skills”
Dean, Bricklaying teacher
Train on the job
With the option to train to become a qualified FE teacher on the job, you can teach while you earn, meaning you don’t have to put your career on hold.
- Some colleges will offer you the option to undertake an apprenticeship or teaching qualification alongside working in a teaching job.
- Colleges may offer this training route as a way to find a candidate with the right industry experience but who doesn’t yet have any formal teacher training.
- Usually, you are expected to complete the qualification within 2 years of accepting the job. Most colleges want their teachers to be trained to Level 5 or above and they can support you in finding out which qualification or route you should take.
- Colleges will explain in their job descriptions if this option is available, but it can be worth asking them directly if its not clear.
Search for teaching construction jobs in Further Education
Find a teaching job near you
Get up to £6000 when you start teaching in a Further Education college
When you start teaching an eligible course in an FE college, you could get an extra payment of up to £6000.
You can claim your payment if you are within the first 5 years of your FE teaching career.
Eligible subjects are:
- building and construction
- computing, including digital and ICT
- engineering and manufacturing, including transport
- engineering and electronics
- early years courses leading to a full and relevant qualification to work in an early years setting
- maths, physics and chemistry