THOSE seeking a change of career in Warrington are being encouraged to become teachers.

A new campaign has launched to both encourage career changers to make the leap into teaching and provide a welcome boost to schools in Warrington looking to recruit in key subject areas.

The Transition to Teach support programme, funded by the Department for Education and led by global education company Cognition Education, is primarily designed to help professionals recognise that their skills and experience can benefit the classroom at any stage of their career.

Initial Teacher Training (ITT) providers in Warrington can also join this programme by partnering with Cognition Education, as one of the key aims is to recruit career changers to raise the quality of teaching and level of education to outstanding levels.

Although there is still major demand for teachers across science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), the campaign highlights the need for professionals to teach across all subject areas.

For example, those with a passion for music, languages, art or history now have the opportunity to incorporate their hobby or pastime into their job by making the career-swap into teaching.

There will be a four-stage process, with help given to individuals during their application and to assess their eligibility, through to initial teacher training and further support when qualified in the first year of teaching.

Mel Sproston, regional director for Cognition Education, commented: "Whether a person in Warrington is nearing the end of their career or just starting out, teaching offers so many positive career and lifestyle benefits.

"We fundamentally believe that individuals with real-world experience across a wealth of industries, sectors and job roles have so much to bring to the classroom.

"As we start the new year, what better time to ignite that passion for teaching?"

Anyone thinking of making the switch into teaching can start their journey by enquiring online or you can book to attend the upcoming coffee morning at Costa Coffee in Sankey Street on March 28 from 10am.