Teach health and social care
Inspire the next generation of health and social care professionals by sharing your expertise where it matters most. As a further education (FE) teacher, you’ll equip learners with the knowledge and practical skills they need to make a real difference in people’s lives.
FE teaching offers a unique opportunity to help shape the future workforce, ensuring learners are prepared to meet the growing demands of the health and social care sector with confidence and compassion.
Why teach health and social care?
Teaching health and social care in FE is a dynamic and varied experience, extending far beyond the classroom. Colleges are seeking professionals with industry experience who can guide students through real-world scenarios and help them develop skills they need to succeed.
As an FE teacher, you’ll have the opportunity to teach in diverse environments, such as colleges, simulated healthcare settings, workplaces and adult learning centres - providing learners with the hands-on experience they need to make a positive impact in the sector.
There’s a wide range of health and social care subjects taught in FE, including midwifery, nursing, human sciences and many more. Whatever your expertise, there is likely a job in FE to match.
Some courses you could teach include:
- Mental health and wellbeing
- Personal safety awareness
- Social work
- Counselling
Typical contracts for a teaching role will be around 35 hours a week. There are full time roles available as well as part time or flexible contracts, so you can continue to work in the industry you love while sharing your skills in FE.
How can I start teaching?
To start teaching in health and social care in FE, you will need a minimum of two years’ experience of working in either industry.
FE colleges are interested in the real-world skills and knowledge you have gained working in industry that can be shared with learners.
If you have industry experience, you can start applying for teaching jobs in health and social care straight away.
“I’ve always wanted to make a difference – for me that’s what it’s always been about. Moving into FE was huge as these students are relying on you, but if you can change one person’s life then it’s worth it. Plus, it makes you feel really proud that you can help future-proof the industry – it’s a privilege to share your skills with young people.”
Sarah, Health and social care 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. Plus, teacher training is often funded by your employer.
- 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.
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