Maths and Science Teachers in Demand

Jan 24, 02:57 PM

A recent edition of the Education Gazette listed 26 purely maths vacancies, 16 combined maths and other subject positions and 12 head of department maths jobs, says University of Canterbury (UC) College of Education School of Sciences and Physical Education senior lecturer Steve French.

"There is a desperate shortage, so there has never been a better time for those with a background in maths to consider a career in teaching.

"Perhaps it is time for a career change. Perhaps engineering, economics, research or accounting isn't what you wanted. Or perhaps you'd like to share your expertise and excitement about learning.

"If you did 200-level mathematics papers as part of a degree, can show interest in teaching as a career, and like working with adolescents, you can apply for the one-year Graduate Diploma in Teaching and Learning (Secondary) programme, which has intakes in February and July."

French spent 16 years teaching mathematics in secondary schools in Britain, New Zealand and Tonga, before embarking on a career as a teacher educator 22 years ago.

"There's nothing better than a dynamic classroom with plenty of debate. That's when you know that there is learning going on. While I enjoyed working with adolescents, it is great teaching student teachers."

He says mathematics has its own mystique, "but everyone can access it if they are taught the right way."

Fellow lecturer Peter Buyers says the same is true of physics.

"It has a reputation for being a difficult subject, but has so many applications to modern life."

Buyers, who has 13 years teaching experience, believes teaching is a fantastic career.

The diploma programme integrates teaching skills with subject content. Students are encouraged to specialise in more than one subject to enhance employment prospects, with science and social- science subjects, mathematics and physical education providing a range of combinations.

Students are taught how to develop resources and assessment tools, the college environment encourages cross-curriculum interaction, mirroring a staff-room environment, and everyone undertakes two extended teaching practices at schools around New Zealand.

"We make sure our graduates are ready for the classroom and help them with recruitment," says French.

"It doesn't take long for maths specialists to be snapped up. We have a Principal's Day when 80 to 100 school heads fly in from around the country to interview our students."

Graduates are not limited to teaching in New Zealand, he says.

"Our qualifications are recognised internationally."

* For further information,

phone 0800 827-748, or see www. education.canterbury.ac.nz

(c) 2008 Press, The; Christchurch, New Zealand. Provided by ProQuest Information and Learning. All rights Reserved. Maths and Science Teachers in Demand
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