Career changers can now apply for a bursary of up to £20,000 to support them while training to fill high-demand teaching roles in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) subjects.
100 bursaries, funded by the SNP Government, are available in academic year 2019/20 with a total value of £2 million. Home Economics is included for the first time. Other STEM subjects in demand are Physics, Chemistry, Maths, Technical Education and Computing Science.
Applications for bursaries opened on 25 February for postgraduate teacher training courses beginning in August 2019.
Deputy First Minister John Swinney MSP said:
“Developing STEM skills is vital for our future economy, and having great STEM teachers who are enthusiastic about their subjects will inspire the next generation of the Scottish workforce.
“The success of the 2018/19 scheme demonstrates that teaching is recognised as an attractive profession, and we want to continue to make it more accessible to those considering a career change to become teachers.
“These bursaries will continue to provide financial help to make it easier for enthusiastic career changers to pursue a career in teaching and share their passion and expertise with pupils.
“The inclusion of Home Economics in the STEM Bursary scheme means it will carry on encouraging new teachers in some of the highest demand teaching posts in schools across the country.”
Skills Development Scotland Education Programme Lead Ken Edwards added:
“The support offered by the STEM Bursary gives career changers the security to make the move from existing employment into teaching.
“This will contribute to getting the right skills balance in the teaching workforce and in supporting young people to be engaged and enthused in their STEM learning.”
Marielle Van Veggel received the STEM Bursary last year, and is currently undertaking teacher training. She commented:
“I wouldn’t have been able to make the career change without the bursary. It’s given my family the financial stability we needed while we make this change for our future.”
For more information such as eligibility and how to apply, visit STEM Bursary Scotland.
ENDS
