School teacher
Also called: TGT, PGT
Teaches a subject or class and helps children grow in knowledge and character.
What the work is
School teachers plan lessons, teach, assess and guide students. Primary teachers teach many subjects to young children; trained graduate teachers (TGT) and postgraduate teachers (PGT) teach a subject to higher classes. Teachers also mentor, run activities and talk with parents.
You need a degree in your subject plus a B.Ed (or D.El.Ed for primary). Government and Kendriya Vidyalaya posts also need CTET or a state TET and a recruitment exam.
A typical week
- Plan and teach lessons
- Set and check tests and homework
- Support students who struggle
- Meet parents and run activities
It suits people who
- Love explaining things
- Are patient with children
- Are organised
Your path to get there
School (Class 8-10)
- Pick subjects you enjoy and might teach
Class 11-12
- Integrated B.A. B.Ed or B.Sc B.Ed (NCET), or graduation first
- D.El.Ed for primary teaching
College or fresher
- Do a B.Ed after graduation
- Clear CTET or your state TET
- Apply to schools and government recruitment (KVS, NVS, state)
Working or switching
- Professionals with a degree can do a B.Ed at any age
- Tutoring is a good first step
- Teaching suits returners well: tutoring, part-time and online teaching are easy first steps.
- Refresh your subject with a short course and clear CTET or TET if you want a government post.
Exams and certifications
| Name | What it is for | When |
|---|---|---|
| CTET ↗ | Eligibility for central government schools | Twice a year |
| State TETs | Eligibility for state government schools | Varies by state |
| KVS and NVS recruitment | Teacher posts in central schools | As notified |
| NCET ↗ | Integrated Teacher Education Programme | Once a year |
Exam names, eligibility and dates change. Always check the official website for this year's notice.
Job market
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