Secondary to Primary - how do I do it please?

[CoffeeBreakIn5]

I left secondary teaching a year ago, I was an English teacher and have 12 years experience and no gaps. I also have a MA ed. I’ve taken some time out because I basically got to the point that I could stand being in my job any more and wanted a change. I’ve been working in something unrelated on a part time basis whilst doing some supply and some exam marking.

I’ve been considering going back to teaching but I think I’d be well suited to primary, I don’t have any idea of how to go about it though. Had anyone done it? I’d love some advice!

[phlebasconsidered]

I'd first of all do some supply in primary to see if you like it.

I changed from secondary to primary via hlta work, supply, long term supply then got offered a job on the back of it. There are not really conversion courses anymore.

I would also invest in some maths training. It's really worth it. You really need to know your stuff. You cant teach maths mastery without really grasping the concepts yourself. Take a look at the year 6 sats papers to see what will be expected.

Personally, I find the workload in primary far heavier. And whilst you might not have the teenage behaviour to deal With, the range of abilities and behaviours in primary is far wider. We see more children with SEND for example, that have transferred to special schools by secondary. I plan from the pivet scales to greater depth in my class, and this often means 4 individual lessons for each lesson. There are far more interventions in primary than secondary and you will have to plan and organise these.

Also be aware that you don't get to choose your year group. You can be year 6 one year and year 1 the next. Whilst you don't have the pressures of GCSE and a level, the SATS years are equally pressured and the data needs and tracking are the same as at secondary. You will be held accountable!

You do get the benefits of being with a class the whole time and getting to really know them, but this is a double edged sword!

[toomuchicecream]

Everything she said! Especially about Maths - the NCETM website has good self evaluation tools to help you identify gaps in your subject and pedagogical knowledge.

Consider also volunteering initially so you can decide if you like it as much as you think you will.

[jo164]

How about looking in the independent sector? Most have subject specific teachers at prep level - certainly KS2. That's how I made the move and have since gained experience in other subjects as well.