PEOPLE have been encouraged to consider making a career move in 2018 and become a teacher in Bradford.

January is a popular month for people to make the move to teaching, with 990 registrants in Yorkshire in January 2017, according to the Get Into Teaching campaign.

Tait Coles, a Science teacher from Dixons City Academy, took the decision to leave his previous employment in industry in early 2000, to go in search of a more rewarding career. He is now supporting the national Get Into Teaching campaign, by recommending other people in Yorkshire to consider making the switch.

Mr Coles, a Science teacher and local Get Into Teaching advocate, said: “I’d always been intrigued by teaching and imagined it to be a very rewarding career. After several years as a scientific researcher, there came a turning point in my life when I realised I needed a new challenge, and felt teaching could offer me this. The idea of switching my profession was nerve-wracking, but it felt the right thing to do. I did my research, applied for the training, and haven’t looked back since.

“Teaching at my school in Bradford really makes me proud and brings daily rewards.”

Get Into Teaching is running a series of events for people looking to change careers, including online workshops on changing career and how to get school experience.

Roger Pope, spokesperson for the Get Into Teaching campaign and Chair of the National College for Teaching and Leadership, said: "We also know that people take time over the Christmas holidays to think about what their day job means to them, and what they might be more motivated to do. That’s where teaching comes into its own - whether you’re driven by the rational or emotional, teaching really is unique. Every day you have the chance to change someone’s life. It’s such a meaningful role where you can go home at the end of every day feeling proud of what you’ve achieved.

“We know some career changers in Yorkshire and the Humber take the plunge in January by deciding to take their skills into the classroom, whilst others might mull over on this important decision a little longer. It’s why we are running a series of events throughout the Spring term where people can find out about life in the classroom, the progression opportunities, competitive salaries and bursaries to help financially whilst you train. Anyone contemplating teaching should visit the Get Into Teaching website to find out more and register their interest.”

For more information visit getintoteaching.education.gov.uk