Is teaching the right career for you? What to think about before you apply

With teacher training applications now officially open, you might be wondering, “Is teaching the right career for me?” This is an important question to ask yourself  as teaching isn’t just a job, it’s a vocation that really shapes lives, communities, and futures.

At Inspiring Leaders Teacher Training, we’ve supported aspiring teachers for over a decade, helping them find their purpose in the classroom. Over the years, we’ve seen what makes teaching such a rewarding profession – and also what it truly demands. If you’re considering applying for teacher training, here are a few reflections to help you decide whether this path is right for you.

Teaching really is about making a difference

At its heart, teaching is about impact. Few careers offer the same opportunity to influence young people’s lives so directly – to help them discover their potential, build confidence, and develop the skills they’ll carry into adulthood.

But that impact doesn’t come instantly. It takes patience, resilience, and a willingness to keep learning. The most successful teachers are those who find fulfilment not just in quick wins, but in the gradual growth of their pupils and in those moments when something finally “clicks.”

It’s a career that encourages you to keep learning

Teaching is one of the few professions where learning never stops. Each lesson, class, and year group brings new experiences and challenges.

Our pedagogical programme is rooted in current classroom practice and research, meaning you’ll always be developing your craft with the latest insights from education. If you love learning, reflecting, and finding new ways to improve, teaching offers endless opportunities for professional growth.

A career that grows with you

One of the best things about teaching is that your career can grow and develop in so many directions. Once you’ve completed your training and early career years, there are lots of opportunities to take on more responsibility – whether that’s leading a subject area, mentoring others, or stepping into pastoral or leadership roles.

Many teachers also move into specialist areas such as SEND, curriculum design, or teacher development. With experience, you can shape your own path, taking on roles that reflect your interests, strengths, and ambitions.

Teaching is a career with real purpose

In a world that’s constantly changing, teaching remains one of the most meaningful and stable professions. If you want a career that offers purpose, creativity, and variety, teaching is hard to beat. No two days are the same, and no two pupils learn in exactly the same way – which means you’ll always be growing, adapting, and making a difference.

Final thoughts

Deciding to train as a teacher is a big step, and it’s worth taking time to reflect on whether it’s right for you. Think about what motivates you, what energises you, and what you value most in your work.

If you’re drawn to a career that’s people-centred, full of variety, and rich with opportunities to make a lasting impact, teaching could be exactly where you belong.

Train to teach with us!

We love to help you explore that journey. Explore our website to learn more about our programmes, meet our team, or speak with one of our current trainees about their experience.