Why it is Okay Not to Know the Answer

Do you want to help shape the minds of the future? Can you bring out the best in people and help them fulfil their goals and ambitions?

We can talk you through the skills and qualifications you need for a rewarding future in education and teaching. You might be surprised to learn that one thing you do not need is encyclopaedic knowledge.

What Do You Need to Get into Teaching?

Teachers need a good level of English and mathematics and an excellent understanding of their specialist subject. Broad knowledge of all core subjects is always a benefit; even at Secondary school level, as you never know what subjects you might be asked to provide cover for.

Besides subject knowledge, those looking to get into teaching need to understand child development and the core principles behind how children learn and develop at various life stages. Understanding how socio-economic factors affect development and learning are also important.

More important than all of this is the ability to communicate with children and young people and create a positive and supportive learning environment. Trust and mutual respect are also crucial if you are going to be successful in education and teaching.

What about Knowing the Answers?

Teaching is not just about imparting facts but also about facilitating the absorption of facts. Children of all ages learn best when they discover information for themselves. Research, experimentation, and taking calculated risks are all part of the learning process.

Children only develop these abilities when they are allowed space to make mistakes and have an appropriate role model. Within the school environment, you, as the teacher are that role model. You need to be honest when you don’t know something and then model how to find the answer. Not only does this encourage research and experimentation skills, but it teaches children and young people that it is okay not to have all the answers all the time.

One question that does need an answer is, where is the best place to study education and teaching courses? The answer is the University of Bolton.

Why Study Education and Teaching at the University of Bolton?

The University of Bolton leads by example. Its lecturers put students first and create positive and supportive teaching and learning environments. We are ranked No. 2 for Teaching Quality* and are a Guardian Top 50 UK University. Our BA (Hons) Education and Learning prepares you well for Post Grad studies that lead to Qualified Teaching Status.

Alternatively, if you are looking to specialise in mathematics, check out our BSc (Hons) Secondary Education and Mathematics with QTS, all while you enjoy #UniAsItShouldBe.

Getting in Touch

If you want to get into education and teaching, find out more by visiting our Education and Teaching courses page, give us a call on +44 (0)1204 900 600 or email enquiries@bolton.ac.uk, and we will be happy to help.

Our award-winning Student Service Team is here for information on funding, finance, wellbeing, accommodation or disability services.

*The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2020