After enjoying some well-deserved rest and festive entertainment over the Christmas break, the new year is the right time for education workers to consider moving towards a different side of the industry to explore exciting new opportunities.
With education being an incredibly rewarding sector offering a range of career paths no matter the expertise and skillset of candidates, those within it benefit from being able to make a career move in many different – but equally worthwhile – directions.
The industry has a continuously positive impact on society, shaping the next generation of workers by empowering them with the skills, values, and knowledge they need to make a positive impact on our world. From teachers and tutors to curriculum developers and learning support assistants, each role within education serves a fulfilling purpose, making for an outstanding career choice.
Here, Matt Gregory, Director of Education at Bookmark, an education recruitment partner matching candidates to their ideal education roles, discusses the many possibilities for those looking for a fresh start in their education career.
Teaching a new subject
One of the most exciting aspects of education, and teaching in particular, is the broad spectrum of subjects available.
For those professionals who may have reached an impasse in their career, having been teaching the same subject for a number or years, turning to a new subject can be a beneficial next step, expanding their knowledge and developing new skills.
Exploring opportunities within new subjects can ignite a passion for new disciplines, thus increasing job satisfaction and leading to new prospects, particularly when taking into account the variety of subjects being added to school curricula that are gaining prominent importance in the modern world, such as technology-based subjects.
Considering teaching at a different level
From nursery, to primary and secondary, to further and higher education, the education sector is filled with opportunities to teach children and young adults at different developmental stages. And for many, making a move to a different level of the industry is just what’s needed to advance their career by engaging with a different, and perhaps more well matched, side of education.
For instance, early years education offers the opportunity for educators to lay the groundwork for the academic success and overall well-being of children, having a long-term impact on their cognitive, social, and emotional skills – an instrumental part of education.
A career in higher education, on the other hand, can be an enriching and noteworthy path for many, empowering young adults with advanced knowledge and skills in their chosen field and enhancing their career opportunities and earning potential.
Pursuing SEN education
Special Educational Needs (SEN) education is one of the most rewarding paths to follow in the education sector, allowing every student, regardless of any learning difficulties or disabilities, to receive the education they need to thrive in society and reach their full potential.
It is no secret that SEN teaching and support is not suited to everyone, requiring a unique set of soft skills as well as technical knowledge.
However, the opportunities available in SEN are varied, ranging from learning support assistants to behaviour mentors, to cover supervisors and many more, enabling those with an interest in this area of education to access the field in different ways and make a difference to the lives of millions of individuals with special educational needs.
Exploring non-teaching education roles
Though teaching roles form a vital part of the education sector, there are a myriad of non-teaching jobs that play a crucial role in ensuring the smooth functioning of the education systems.
Administrative roles, for instance, help oversee the daily operations and long-term planning in education establishments, as well as managing the admissions and enrolment processes, maintaining records, securing funding for educational programmes, and more.
From school and career counsellors to curriculum developers, to financial aid advisors, to educational technologists, each role is key, bringing expertise and insights to inform decision-making and enhance the overall quality of the education provided.
Without these roles, creating a conducive environment for teaching and learning would not be possible, making them a rewarding avenue for those who don’t have a passion for teaching, but still want to support the advancement of the education field and the developmental journey of young people.
Full-time, temporary and part-time opportunities
Another advantageous element of a career in education is the flexibility, enabling individuals to take on jobs in ways other than on a full-time basis.
For those with parental responsibilities, other jobs, or who simply enjoy a less hectic lifestyle, part-time positions are ideal, while also providing opportunities for skills development and growth.
Taking on a temporary role offers the chance to work in different educational settings, levels and subject areas, also allowing individuals to experience the job without making a long-term commitment. These types of positions can ultimately help fill employment gaps while also contributing to creating a varied, comprehensive CV and making candidates more attractive to employers.
Find your next education role with ease
The education sector is inherently diverse, providing dynamic and rewarding opportunities for individuals who seek to pursue meaningful and impactful careers.
Education offers a wide array of roles to suit various skills, interests, and career aspirations, such as for those who aim to inspire and mentor the next generation or those who want to contribute to the development of the field, meaning individuals can easily find their niche within the broader educational ecosystem.
Further, the demand for quality education professionals in the UK is continuous, ensuring job stability for those in the sector and opening doors to diverse career paths.
Bookmark is committed to connecting education professionals with top establishments and helping them take the next steps within their career with tailored solutions.
