It is no longer news that the United Kingdom has included Nigeria as well as some other countries into the list of countries that can apply to teach in the UK without further training. Many people desire to move to the Uk as a Nigerian teacher. In the UK, there has been a rise in demand in recent years for instructors with the necessary qualifications. A plethora of opportunities have emerged for educators worldwide, including those in Nigeria, due to this need. This piece will explore the various pathways that Nigerian educators can take to work as teachers in the UK. If you desire to 'japa' someday to Europe, the United Kingdom can be a much more conducive place to go as a teacher.
Qualified Teacher Status QTS
In the UK, teaching professionals must hold the QTS certification. Nigerian educators who possess a valid teaching credential from their nation of origin (i.e TRCN)and a strong command of the English language may be qualified for the Assessment Only (AO) pathway leading to QTS. Through this procedure, qualified teachers can prove their proficiency and obtain QTS without having to go through a rigorous training course.
Teachers who don't fit the requirements for the AO route can still earn QTS by finishing a PGCE program in the UK. The QTS standards are met by the PGCE curriculum, guaranteeing that graduates are ready for the rigors of the British classroom.
The Postgraduate Certificate In Education (PGCE)
In the UK, the PGCE is a highly respected teaching credential that offers prospective teachers a crucial starting point. Teachers from Nigeria who wish to work in the UK should think about applying to PGCE programs. The goal of this course is to give students the subject knowledge, pedagogical expertise, and hands-on teaching experience they need to succeed in the British educational system.
Working professionals can choose from a variety of full-time and part-time PGCE programs offered by numerous universities and institutes throughout the United Kingdom. Furthermore, several colleges provide special programs designed to assist international students in adjusting to the British educational system.
To get a QTS through PGCE, You’ll need the following or equivalents:
- a degree
- grade 4 (C) or above in English and math GCSEs
- grade 4 (C) or above in GCSE science if you want to teach primary
If you do not have GCSE grade 4 (C), you’ll need to show that you can meet an equivalent level. The training provider may ask you to take an equivalence test or show other evidence of your ability.
You can get a statement from UK ENIC (the UK agency that recognizes international qualifications and skills) that shows how your qualifications compare to UK qualifications. Some training providers may ask to see it as part of your application.
Training providers usually prefer you to have:
- a degree, or relevant vocational or technical qualification
- grade 4 (C) or above in English and math GCSEs (or equivalent)
After you’re offered a place on a course, you’ll need to:
- confirm you have the health and physical capacity to start training.
- get a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) certificate if you’re teaching students under 18.
- apply for a visa if you need one.
Click here to apply for a one year PGCE course
Financial Support
Nigerian teachers can receive financial assistance and scholarships to help them complete their PGCE in the UK. International students, including those from Nigeria, can pursue their education overseas with the help of grants and scholarships from organizations like the British Council and the Commonwealth Scholarships Commission.
These scholarships frequently pay for living expenses, tuition, and sometimes travel expenses. It is advised that Nigerian educators look into these possibilities and submit their applications as soon as possible to improve their chances of getting funding. The funding ranges from 10,000 pounds to 28,000 pounds with some subjects such as Chemistry, physics and mathematics enjoying additional 30,000 pounds in scholarships.
Visa Sponsorship
One of the most important steps in becoming a teacher in the UK is getting a valid visa. The Tier 2 (General) visa is one of the many visa categories that the UK government offers to educators. Teachers need to have a valid Certificate of Sponsorship (COS) from their employer/ trainer and a confirmed job offer from a UK-based school in order to be eligible for this visa.
Click here to see available jobs in UK that are ready to sponsor your visa.
Because they understand the value that skilled foreign teachers offer to the educational system, employers in the UK are frequently ready to fund them. It is recommended that Nigerian educators look into schools and organizations that have a history of employing foreign teachers and ask about possible employment openings.
Move To The UK As A Nigerian Teacher by Educator Hub