History
Being a History teacher
History teachers help young people understand their place in the world by educating them about the past. Great history teachers are storytellers as well as educators – they bring the past to life in imaginative, engaging ways.
Training options
History teachers either follow their history degree with a post-graduate Professional Graduate Diploma in Education (PGDE) or study a four-year combined degree in history and education.
Four-year university course in education
For the four-year combined degree and other undergraduate degree programmes you must have at least:
- English and two other National Qualifications at SCQF Level 6 (Higher Grade) AND
- Mathematics and one other subject at SCQF Level 5 (or an accepted alternative, for example, National 5, Credit Standard Grade or Intermediate 2).
Check the entry requirements with the course provider.
Universities you can study in
PGDE university courses
Here are the universities you can study for a PDGE in History at secondary level. Entry requirements vary so it’s best to check with the course provider.
Universities you can study in
University of AberdeenUniversity of Edinburgh
University of GlasgowUniversity of Strathclyde
Kate Riddell – History Teacher at Hawick High School
“I worked as an administrative assistant before becoming a teacher but found office work tedious and knew I had more to give. I chose teaching because I really enjoyed working with people and wanted to make a difference to young people’s lives.
"Teaching History can sometimes be quite challenging as students often ask why they need to learn about the past. Once I explain the skills they learn in class are invaluable and show how they’re relevant to future jobs then they do get on board.
"I’m enthusiastic and hardworking and I genuinely care about the students. I’m not just their History teacher but also someone they can confide in and come to if they’re worried about anything. If you’re willing to work hard, can time manage well and are committed to young people then I’d recommend teaching to you. It’s an extremely rewarding career."