How to train as an elementary school teacher

Working as an elementary teacher means that you get involved with the educational and emotional development of children from a young age. It is a big responsibility, but a very rewarding one. So, if you think you would be a good teacher, how do you go about becoming an elementary teacher and how do you get the post you want?

Job description of an elementary school teacher

What does elementary teaching involve? You will be responsible for one class, making up education lesson plans and generally introducing a child to the world of a variety of different subjects such as elementary mathematics, English, history and social studies. You may instead specialise in an aspect of elementary education such as music or art. What is the average salary for an elementary teacher? Although states vary, as does the level of expertise you may have, the average elementary salary is $50,500.

How to become an elementary school teacher

What training do you need? You must do a bachelor's degree. It does not have to be in education, although some states incorporate the educational certificate into their degrees. Any bachelor's degree will take three to four years. The approved teacher education programme After you have passed your degree, if it did not include an approved teacher education programme, then you must complete an approved course known as an approved teacher education programme. It should be approved by the SBEC ( state board of education certificate). The programme can be done online or on a more practical basis whilst working as a student teacher. The course is a combination of skills such as making teaching plans and elementary lesson plans as well as theory and practice in the educational system. The exam Once you have completed the approved teaching course, you will need to sit a state certification exam that certifies you as a qualified teacher upon passing it.

Getting a job

How to go about getting a job There are certain things that you can do to improve your chances of landing yourself the job you want. You should have as much experience with children as you can from a younger age, you could also take more educational classes and go into a special education career. You should also think about joining a teaching society, so that you can be kept up-to-date on all the developments in the world of teaching. Your personality at interviews You should be enthusiastic and very knowledgeable about children, and the way they develop. You should also, obviously, be good with children, be organised and flexible in your lesson plans. Having plans for what you would like to do with your career in the future, is a good idea too.