Secondary School Teachers

HOW TO GET THERE

Typical pathway

A typical path is to finish secondary school, then complete a teacher education program at university, usually after or alongside a bachelor’s degree. Students often study the subject they hope to teach, such as math, English, French, special education or a vocational area, and build classroom experience through practicum or student-teaching placements. Some people also gain early experience by tutoring, coaching, volunteering with youth, or working in schools. Requirements can vary by province, school board, and subject area, so check local rules for the exact steps.

THE WORK

What you may do

Legacy duties

• Prepare subject material for presentation to students according to an approved curriculum
• Teach students using a systematic plan of lectures, discussions, audio-visual presentations, and laboratory, shop and field studies
• Assign and correct homework
• Prepare, administer and correct tests
• Evaluate progress, determine individual needs of students and discuss results with parents and school officials
• Prepare and implement remedial programs for students requiring extra help
• Participate in staff meetings, educational conferences and teacher training workshops
• May advise students on course selection and on vocational and personal matters
• May supervise student teachers.
• Secondary school teachers may specialize in such areas as mathematics, English, French, special education or second language instruction. Secondary school teachers of vocational and trades subjects may specialize in areas such as hairdressing or auto mechanics.

SKILLS TO BUILD

Skills used in this Career