A postgraduate course is the stepping stone to become an Academic teacher but in order to take a step onto a postgraduate course; you will need relevant work experience. Below are some ideas about the kind of roles that will give you this experience including some in the local area:
- Teaching assistant/volunteer. Local places that offer voluntary work:
- Mansbridge Primary School
- Bassett Green Primary School
- Bursledon Junior School
- Oasis Academy Mayfield
- Harefield Primary School
- Nursery Volunteer at Early Years Centre at University of Southampton
- Cantell Maths and Computing College
It is best to apply for these roles via Community Volunteering as they are able to provide CRB checks that are essential for working with children and young people. In addition, they can locate volunteers to the schools in order to balance requests across the community.
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Voluntary Research Assistant - The University of Southampton runs a programme for a Voluntary Research Assistant (VRA). This is unpaid and usually runs over the summer or a few hours a week during term time. It is a great opportunity to increase your chances of achieving a place on a postgraduate course. In addition, the researchers could write a letter of reference for you.
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The British Psychological Society offers a Summer Research Assistantship for undergraduates before the start of their final year. The research project typically lasts around 6-8 weeks and it provides the students with a stipend of £200 per week. There are up to 10 places available each year.
- Paid Research Assistant
- Postgraduate Teaching Assistant
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Jobs are advertised in the Psychologist Appointments, which is part of The Psychologist (the BPS monthly magazine), in newspapers (e.g. The Times, The Guardian, The Independent) and in specialist publications from the Health Service Journal and the Department of Health website.
CRB Check
A Criminal Records Bureau Check will be needed if you are working with children or sensitive information.