SOUTH Essex College which has campuses in Basildon, Thurrock and Southend, is looking for experienced industry professionals who want to change careers, to take part in their new paid teacher training scheme.

The Taking Teaching Further project is an initiative lead by Education Training Foundation (ETF) where the college supports people from professional industries who want to become lecturers.

The programme enables the college to recruit individuals with employment sector relevant knowledge. These recruits have the potential to improve outcomes for students through their understanding of the latest skills, techniques, approaches and equipment within industries such as catering and hospitality, business and administration, construction, creative design, digital, childcare, engineering, health and social care.

Petrit Shala took part in the project last year. He previously worked at the Port of Tilbury as Operations Manager and now teaches digital courses at the college.

Petrit, 41, said: "I wanted to share my knowledge of new technologies to future generations. I also wanted to spend more time with my family, the school holidays allow me to do that. I'm very much enjoying working as a teacher."

The project offers an enhanced mentoring and support package, the chance to work shadow qualified teachers plus it allows those who take part to gain a Level 5 teaching qualification (Diploma in Education/Training or PgCE).

Nicki Kelly, Assistant Principal, South Essex College, said: "Taking Teaching Further has enabled us as a college to attract highly skilled industry professionals to join our team, with an excellent support package for their journey into teaching."

Applicants must have been in their chosen industry for the last 12 months and not have any previous teaching qualifications.

If you are interested in the opportunity, contact [email protected]