Our Explore Teaching Scheme is a great way for current students and recent graduates to gain valuable classroom experience and explore a future career in teaching.
What's involved?
By taking part in the scheme, you'll:
- volunteer at a primary, secondary or special needs school for 15 days
- work with small groups of pupils under a teacher's guidance
- share your enthusiasm and subject knowledge with the classroom
You'll usually complete your placement on a part-time basis for one day a week. There is also flexibility for you to complete your placement on a full-time basis over three weeks.
You can apply for one of the following intakes:
- September to February
- February to July
Who's eligible?
You can apply if you’re a:
- current undergraduate or postgraduate student at Westminster
- recent Westminster graduate (within the last three years)
Both UK and international students and graduates are eligible.
Why take part?
- Gain hands-on teaching experience
- Act as a role model for young people and help inspire them towards higher education
- Build experience that may help prepare you for part-time work as a teaching assistant or cover supervisor
- If you decide to pursue a career in teaching, you can include your experience in your Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) application
- Receive a reference letter to support your application for a PGCE or a part-time teaching assistant role
- Earn a Certificate of Achievement and points towards the Westminster Award
- If you're an undergraduate student, you may be able to count your experience towards your Work-Based and Placement Learning
Selection criteria
As part of the selection process, you'll need to demonstrate the following skills and attributes:
- excellent written and verbal communication skills
- ability to work in a team
- good interpersonal skills
- reliability and punctuality
- flexibility and a willingness to learn
Successful applicants
If your application is successful, you'll need to attend a training session to help prepare you for your placement.
We'll also arrange an enhanced DBS check for you – this is a safeguarding requirement of all schools and colleges.
How to apply
To apply for the scheme, you'll need to complete an application form on CareerZone and take part in an informal interview.
Applications for the Explore Teaching Scheme are currently closed.
What past participants say
"I have actively participated in the school community, building connections with students and teachers from various backgrounds."
Sophie, BSc Computer Science, Explore Teaching Volunteer of the Year 2024
"The placement helped me to determine what I want to do in the future – to become a teacher."
Lubna, BSc Psychology and Criminology
Contact us
For answers to common questions, see our Explore Teaching FAQs on CareerZone.
You can also email us at [email protected]Email us about teaching placements.