An English teacher is responsible for teaching English language as well as English literature. In the UK the majority of students still speak English as their first language and as such have a reasonable grasp of the subject already. The teacher’s role then is to improve the students’ knowledge of grammar and expand their familiarity with literature
Both primary and secondary school English teachers are expected to instruct students in their subject, but also supervise and report on each student’s progress. Teachers will set and grade coursework and prepare their students for national examinations as well as to report to their parents. Incumbents will be responsible for teaching classes of approximately 30 students in four to seven classes each day
To teach English in the UK, candidates must hold a postgraduate certificate in education (PGCE) which can be obtained at numerous universities across the country. They must also be happy to work at home to prepare lessons and mark students’ work. A high degree of patience and the ability to get on with younger people is vital for those who want to take on this important role
Salaries range from £16,000 to £38,000, but the role holds other rewards as it offers long holidays over summer as well as breaks for Easter and Christmas.