Love getting stuck in with science? Teaching it might be your dream job!
If you’re a STEM graduate who thrives on discovery, innovation, and getting hands-on with experiments, teaching science might be the career you didn’t know you were looking for. With Ark Teacher Training, you get the unique opportunity to bring science to life for the next generation every single day, while receiving unrivalled support along the way.
Instead of working behind the scenes in a lab or crunching numbers at a desk, imagine standing in front of a classroom, demonstrating chemical reactions, sparking curiosity, and watching pupils' eyes light up as they experience science for the very first time. It’s not just work - it’s magic.
Why teaching can be an exciting career move for STEM Graduates
Let’s be honest: Although many STEM roles can be brilliant, few offer the day-to-day buzz of discovery quite like teaching. Teaching science is interactive, creative, and rewarding. You're given tools, resources and practical equipment to share the wonder of physics, chemistry, biology and maths with eager minds.
You’re not just explaining concepts. You’re lighting that first spark that could inspire a future doctor, engineer, or researcher!
1. Reflect, learn, and thrive with Ark Teacher Training’s unique teaching structure
Starting out in a new career can be daunting, but Ark Teacher Training gets it. Unlike many other teacher training routes, which either require you to follow a rigorous teaching timetable with limited support or take a more university-based approach with little direct classroom experience, Ark offers a more balanced, thoughtful approach designed to help you succeed.
In your first term, you’ll teach for about half of your working week. The remaining time is dedicated to reflection and active training. You will cover educational theory and classroom practice, attend regular subject study sessions and benefit from weekly 1:1 coaching delivered by dedicated mentors. This structure ensures you get direct experience without being thrown in the deep end, allowing you to build your confidence and skills at your own pace.
2. A financially smart move for STEM Graduates
We know finances matter - especially if you're transitioning from another career or straight from university. At Ark Teacher Training, we would never want the cost of living to stand in the way of starting a successful teaching career. Luckily, there’s good news.
As a STEM trainee teacher with Ark, you are eligible for tax-free bursaries and generous incentives of up to £31,000 (gov.uk), making the move into teaching both meaningful and financially secure.
With Ark Teacher Training you’ll achieve a fully-funded PGCE alongside Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) within one year, qualifications that are recognised and respected globally – and it doesn’t stop there! Once qualified, potential earnings are competitive, with clear progression routes mapped out and access to a broad range of accredited leadership programmes delivered by Ark Learning Institute.
3. Rewarding: From the perspective of STEM teachers
“One of my year 10 students told me ' Sir, I never used to understand physics. I always thought it was the hardest one of the sciences.’. Now, he’s at a stage where he’s able to tell me that he finds physics the easiest and probably the most interesting as well. It was so good to hear!” ~ Find out more on the Ark Teacher Training Instagram
“I love maths, so I really want my kids to learn it. I want them to find the beauty in maths.” ~ Binglu, Maths teacher trainee
“The work you are doing is meaningful and directly impacts the future of your pupils in your responsibility, and let me tell you, that’s one of the best feelings in the world.” ~ Kwaku, Ark Teacher Training maths graduate
4. What do we mean by STEM graduates?
The good news is that this is different: many STEM qualifications and related degrees are transferable across disciplines, meaning you could be eligible to teach many other subjects. Did you study Engineering? You could teach maths or physics. Archaeology? Think about biology or chemistry. Finance? Consider training to teach maths!
What is there to gain with Ark Teacher Training as a STEM Graduate?
- Take part in hands-on science every day – You'll be engaging in daily practicals, not stuck behind a desk.
- Fantastic financial incentive – STEM trainee teachers get access to tax-free bursaries
- Earn a fully-funded PGCE with QTS – Gain globally-recognised qualifications
- The perfect balance of theory and practice – Starting on a reduced timetable, you’ll gain all the benefits of teaching from day one while accessing high-quality training and tailored support
- Join a national network – Ark Teacher Training will connect you with passionate educators across the UK
Ready to use your STEM passion to inspire?
If you're passionate about science and want to do work that truly matters, Ark Teacher Training offers the perfect route into teaching. Not only will you gain the qualifications you need, but you'll also have the tools and support to become a great teacher, delivering real, tangible impact to the pupils you teach.be surrounded by support, inspiration, and real impact from day one.
Train to teach science - learn more and apply today through the GRB + Ark partnership page
FAQs for STEM Graduates considering Ark Teacher Training
1. Do I need prior teaching experience to apply?
Nope! Ark Teacher Training is designed for graduates with a passion for their subject and for working with young people, not necessarily experience in the classroom.
2. How long does the Ark programme take?
One academic year. You'll earn a PGCE and QTS by the end.
3. What subjects are eligible for higher bursaries?
Physics, chemistry, computing, and maths qualify for the highest bursaries. Check the latest figures here.
4. Will I be supported in my training year?
Absolutely. Ark’s carefully balanced teacher training model provides the right mix of classroom experience, training, coaching and personalised support, ensuring you're never on your own.
5. What’s different about Ark’s approach?
You’ll be part of a mission-driven, values-led programme that puts teacher development and pupil success at the heart of everything. Despite operating in areas of high need, our schools achieve results well above national averages and we top the attainment tables among comparable trusts.
6. Can I choose where I train?
Yes - Ark will never make you relocate. Our schools are located in Birmingham, Hastings, London or Portsmouth. You select your preferred location and we match you to a school in your local area.
