Why Alternative Provision is a rewarding career move for more than just teachers

Teaching is one of the oldest professions in the world. We’ve all heard the infamous phrase ‘those who can, teach’ and this vocation to help others through knowledge has been passed down for centuries. Socrates to NQT’s lining up their first Autumn term classrooms, teaching has never stood still.

From ancient times to modern technology, we have learned that not every approach works for everyone. Different tools and methods are needed for both teachers and students, as shown by changing guidelines and evaluations.

Most ‘mainstream’ teaching jobs require a degree, ITT, NQT, PGCE, the list goes on. And quite rightly so you may think. The people we trust with teaching the next generation should be well educated and knowledge experts in their chosen topic.

Today, education staff are facing more demands than ever before. Teachers who can bring life experience and extra skills to the classroom are needed.

Many mainstream schools are at capacity if not oversubscribed. Lots of full time teachers work hours they’re not paid for. They spend their own money buying materials to teach in a way that positively impacts their pupils and their mental health.

Many are under extreme pressure to perform miracles with traditional curriculum pathways that simply don’t suit all children. Children who ultimately are left out. That’s where alternative provision comes in with the potential to revolutionise the very idea of ‘getting an education’.

People who are naturally empathetic teach alternative provision. Some are career shifters, coming into the sector from industries such as youth work, social care, HM armed forces, prison service or NHS workers with experience of behavioural management in everyday settings.

Now Teach  is a charity which supports experienced people to change career and become teachers. Katie Waldegrave, their Director and Co-founder says:

“We’re really proud that a number of our teaching staff that are choosing to work in AP settings and SEN schools. Where possible we connect candidates to our network and other educational organisations to find suitable AP roles. While their career paths are different, ie, not traditional teachers training or education degrees, they have included previous experience of working with children and young people with additional needs, for example, as a swimming coach.

“All bring valuable life experience and an understanding of the complexity of life. They come from a vast array of different professional backgrounds, but are united by a shared sense of moral purpose and desire to pass on some of their skills and experiences to the next generation. They bring valuable knowledge of other sectors, new networks and fresh ideas; I’m always particularly pleased when I hear that someone has found the perfect match for their skills is outside the mainstream.”

Alternative provision teaching is a role that requires truckloads of patience, compassion and drive.

It’s also hugely rewarding.

It’s not just newcomers or career changers that are attracted to AP. Many current staff have returned to work and dedicated their time as a legacy project. Giving something back to a young person to ensure they can thrive is a truly humbling experience. With all that life experience, there’s so much more to learn than just the traditional curriculum.

Building trust, getting to know the whole pupil and understanding their struggles helps to develop collaborative ways of working. It can have amazing results with students discovering their full potential.

A career in AP provision offers long-term rewards that go beyond a typical job. Working with young people aged 14-19 in an AP setting allows you to make a significant impact on their lives.

As a youth support worker, your day will be filled with opportunities to guide them towards their full potential. This might involve providing work experience placements, collaborating with the Department for Education to tailor programs, or even setting up youth clubs within a school site provision.

The challenges faced by these young people, whether in special education or struggling in the job market, can be complex. However, by using your skills and knowledge, you can help them improve their behaviour, develop essential life skills, and even gain qualifications like a diploma in youth work practice.

Progress School staff teams are like a family. From Heads of School to Head Teachers, Teachers, Teaching Assistants and Pastoral Mentors. Working collaboratively with pupils and their families gives everyone the best possible chance of helping a pupil fulfil their potential.

Progress Schools is hiring now. To find out more about current job vacancies in alternative provision, head to our vacancies page or follow us on Twitter @SchoolsProgress