“Teaching is one of the few jobs where you make a difference every single day.”
It’s not always easy, but it is deeply rewarding. As a teacher, you’re part of something bigger: a school community, a team of professionals, and a network of learners. With the right training and support, it’s a career where you can truly thrive – and at Five Counties SCITT, we’re here to help you take that first step.
A typical day in the classroom
No two days are ever the same in teaching, and that’s part of what makes it so rewarding. A typical school day might start with preparing lessons, greeting pupils as they arrive, and checking in with colleagues. From there, your day could include delivering lessons, leading group activities, supporting individual students, or working with parents and carers.
In primary schools, you’ll usually teach the same class throughout the day, building strong relationships and covering a broad curriculum. In secondary schools, you’ll specialise in a subject you’re passionate about, working with different classes and year groups – usually from Years 7 to 11, and often with opportunities to gain experience in post-16 education too.
Outside the classroom, there’s also time for lesson planning, marking, and collaboration. It’s a fast-paced but highly structured day – and nothing beats the buzz of a classroom where students are engaged and learning.
The joys of the job
Ask any teacher what keeps them going, and you’ll hear about the rewards – big and small. Whether it’s the lightbulb moment when a pupil understands something for the first time, or the quiet thank-you from a student you’ve supported through a tough day, teaching is filled with moments that matter.
You’ll become a trusted adult in children’s lives. You’ll see them grow in confidence, develop new skills, and achieve things they didn’t think possible. You’ll also be part of a wider school community – working closely with colleagues, families, and other professionals to create a safe, happy, and ambitious learning environment.
Teaching really is a career where you make a difference every single day.
The challenges – and how to manage them
It’s important to be realistic, too. Teaching comes with challenges – from classroom management to workload and the emotional demands of supporting young people. But you’re never expected to face those alone.
Great training makes a huge difference. At Five Counties SCITT, our school-based teacher training programme is designed to build your confidence gradually. You’ll learn in real classrooms, supported by expert mentors who guide you every step of the way. With regular feedback, structured progression, and a strong support network, you’ll grow at a pace that’s right for you.
We also know that wellbeing matters. That’s why we work closely with our trainees to make sure their placements, support, and training strike the right balance between challenge and care.
Skills that make great teachers
You don’t need to be perfect to become a teacher – just passionate, open to learning, and ready to make a difference. Some of the most valuable skills in teaching are those you might already have:
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Empathy and emotional intelligence
- Patience and perseverance
- Communication and listening skills
- Creativity and adaptability
- Strong subject knowledge
- Organisational skills
Great teachers are good listeners, clear communicators, and reflective learners. These are all things we help you develop during your training. With personalised support and hands-on experience, you’ll finish the programme feeling confident and well-prepared.
How to get started in teaching
If this sounds like the kind of career you’re looking for, we’d love to help you begin your journey.
At Five Counties SCITT, we offer hands-on, school-based teacher training across the South West – including Bristol, South Gloucestershire, Bath, Somerset, and surrounding areas. Our postgraduate programmes combine real classroom experience with weekly professional learning, led by expert teachers and subject specialists.
We’ll support you to become the best teacher you can be — with expert mentors, strong local school partnerships, and a personalised approach that helps you grow in confidence and independence.