Confidence- its holding me back

[Tarynsmummy]

I am having second thoughts on my chosen career. I am currently studing Forensic Psychology (3rd Year Sept) with the idea that I was going to become a Foresic Psychologist. So, I have looked into it some more and realised that I def need to do MA or get on the job training- both hard to get place on because there is so much competition. So now I have set my sights on becoming a teacher. Here lies the problem. I don't want to work in secondry schools, which leaves me with primary and FE (sixth form). The Fe route is what I would like to do because I could teach Psychology, BUT I am not sure I have the confidence to stand in front of them and actually teach. The thought of teaching primary doesn't bother me, but I wouldn't be able to teach psychology. So what do I do? Realistically-how much confidence do you need? I'm not a really shy person, its just that from experience of class presentations I panic- go red, get a dry mouth , that kind of thing.

If you are teaching Psychology in FE you will probably need to be able to teach something else as well as there will probably not be enough demand for Psychology to fill your timetable. I have a psychology degree and teach maths and computing (in FE).

Psychology in FE will be A level students. This is an advantage as they tend (though be cautious about this) to be more mature and focussed. They may be, however, very immature and can be quite demanding. Having said this, don't be discouraged. The confidence comes with experience. Everyone starts somewhere and even the most confident teachers will admit to having nearly lost it on more than one occasion. You have an advantage in being a mother. Even 18 year olds benefit from a toddler training regieme. Clear, constant boundries and a sense of humour all help.

For help try the tes staffroom for pointers and some indication as to how life really is at the chalkface.

Thanx Slug, I would probably be able to teach some criminology and poss some sociology so no probs there. Saved the link into my favourites, its got some really great info on there.