Switching from primary to secondary...possible?

[PeerFeedback]

Has anyone done this? Just toying with the idea. I have a 2:1 in History and a Primary PGCE. Are there any courses or anything I could do to improve my chances or is it just a case of applying for jobs as and when they appear & hoping for the best?

History teachers are not in the main in demand - the pgce courses are usually oversubscribed and jobs fill up. It's often a case of "dead mens boots".

Also be prepared to teach another subject at gcse or A Level. I'd take a good look at the A Level exam moderation examples and see if you are prepared to teach to that.

I went the other way , from secondary to primary after 10 years. Neither is better, imo. They're both flat out and in need of an overhaul! Why do you want to change? Believe me, cramming unwanted GCSE info into a 16 year olds head is no more wonderful than cramming SATS info in.

No you could be right. It's more I've done a bit of reading lately & its reignited my interest a bit and got me thinking , currently in y6 and SATS are boring me to death but they really enjoy the (limited) history I do with them..

Looking at A level exam moderation is a good idea might have a little nose no idea even what the syllabus is. My other interest is RE not really a shortage subject either sadly !!!

If you had a maths or physics degree id say go for it. Even some technologies. But history? Probably not much out there. Just start applying.

Could you get involved in history education some other way? Maybe through a local history group or museum doing talks to schools or children and advising on curriculum/creating resources when you have more volunteer experience?
My dad had a day job but was a really experienced and respected amateur historian who led coach tours etc, on the side. (He's retired from his day job but still writes books on his hobby!)

I really like those ideas drspouse thank you will look into it.