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There is currently a shortage of chemistry teachers, and it is regarded as a shortage subject in the recruitment of trainees.

Become a chemistry teacher

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If you choose to embark on initial teacher training (ITT) in chemistry, bursaries of up to £20,000 are available for courses starting in 2013. The amount of bursary you will be eligible for depends on your degree class.

As an alternative option to the standard bursaries, the Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC) has 130 teacher training scholarships worth £20,000 available to eligible chemistry trainees starting their teacher training in the 2013/14 academic year.

The scholarship will be instead of the standard bursary, but trainees who are not awarded the scholarship will continue to be eligible for the standard bursaries.

The RSC is looking for individuals who are passionate about chemistry, have the potential to be an exceptional chemistry teacher and can therefore inspire the next generation of chemists. In addition to the funding, RSC Scholars will have access to a wide variety of RSC support including membership and networking opportunities. Visit the RSC website to view the full eligibility criteria and to apply.

To see what funding you might be entitled to, please visit our postgraduate funding page

Teaching chemistry is a massive challenge that requires great talent, but the rewards are equally great. In addition to excellent training, you will benefit from a competitive salary and fantastic career development opportunities once you qualify.

The demand for chemistry teachers underlines the importance of the job. In completing ITT, you will train to become a real asset to your school and community, so you can use your expertise to help young people build better futures.

You could be a new graduate or considering changing career for a more enticing challenge. Either way, now is the perfect time to apply to train as a chemistry teacher. The need for good teachers is not fleeting – you'll be training towards a career that offers progression, security, and job satisfaction that is hard to beat.

If you are interested in the rewards and challenges of teaching chemistry, you can find out more by signing up for information and advice today

Our new enhanced service, Premier Plus, is available to those who wish to start training for a shortage subject such as chemistry, in the academic year 2012/13. You’ll be eligible for exclusive benefits including personalised advice from a named adviser.

If you’re an engineering graduate or an experienced engineer looking for a change of career, visit our engineering pages to discover how you can use your skills in the classroom.

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Take advantage of our new Premier Plus service to receive one-to-one advice and exclusive benefits.

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Call the Teaching Line on 0800 389 2500 and receive tailored information and advice.

Could you teach chemistry?

an image of a teacher demonstrating a science experiment in the classroom

Find out how completing ITT will prepare you for a career in teaching.

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Find out about the many benefits of a career in teaching chemistry.

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