Get an Internship
Most of the bachelor’s programs for PE will require you to get an internship afterwards. You can usually get an internship as part of your coursework. Your internship may last for a single semester. And the length of your internship will depend on the type of program you attend.
Use the School Direct Route
You may not want to pursue a bachelor’s degree to become a PE teacher. In that case, a school direct route is the way to go. School-led courses are another great option for obtaining your QTS and becoming a qualified PE teacher. They provide a hands-on approach to training by immersing you in the realm of what your future job may entail.
As you learn on the job, you may find yourself working in two schools. The courses typically take a year and provide the equivalent of a postgraduate qualification. The most significant advantage of training in this manner is that you will have time to work in a single school once completely trained.
Also, programs may pay your tuition, and there are some paid choices, particularly if you already have a degree and three years of job experience. The School Centred Initial Teacher Training Consortium (SCITT) or those with close affiliations to a university conduct the programs.
Volunteering
Working with young people and gaining experience is good, although it is not a must. This can be accomplished by volunteering or paid employment at a school, coaching at a sports club, or youth work. However, teaching in a British state school may require a QTS.
Take and Pass Your Certification Exams
In order to be a PE teacher, you will have to take several certification exams. You can usually take these exams after getting your bachelor’s degree. This would help you get the teacher’s certificate. In addition, PE teachers may complete exams in different subject areas.
Get Your Physical Education Endorsement
The certification examinations you complete to become a PE teacher indicate your eligibility. It will help you to acquire both your state teaching certificate and your physical education endorsement. Since you’re focusing on physical education, you must earn this endorsement. And that is in addition to your teaching license.
You must also renew your teaching license and PE endorsement every few years. Teachers’ credentials are typically renewed every three to five years. And you might have to complete continuing education to recertify. However, the specific requirements for recertification vary from city to city.
Career Change
Before changing occupations to become a PE instructor, it is a good idea to be physically fit. You may also need to pursue more schooling to improve your physical education abilities. You may enrol in training programs that will guide and teach you all you need to know to become a fully trained teacher.
Some programs provide training in a wide range of areas, including the business and personal elements of teaching. They can also coach their trainees and provide internships to ensure that they are prepared to work with kids after the program is over.
Gain Skills for Further Help
Aspiring physical education teachers benefit from physical fitness, team sports experience, and strong interpersonal and communication skills. PE teachers should be excellent communicators and patiently deal with students. Engaging instructors are also respectful of their students’ boundaries.
Team dynamics, kinesiology, and nutrition knowledge can assist new physical education instructors in obtaining work. A physical education teacher’s purpose is to encourage physical fitness. PE teachers also educate children on the importance of good health and dietary habits. As role models for their pupils, competent PE teachers should exhibit all aspects of good health and fitness. Physical education instructors motivate their pupils to live active, healthy lives.