Teacher — Secondary School — Mathematics

You would teach young people about numbers and shapes. You'd also show them how to use mathematical skills for calculating, problem-solving, algebraic thinking, information-handling and analysis.

As a maths teacher you’d inspire and motivate your pupils to develop their mathematical and numeracy skills. They would learn to understand how numbers work and the relevance of mathematics to daily life. You'd teach concepts such as using chance and risk assessment in decision-making.

You would teach young people from 11 to 18 years old, in state and independent schools. You might also work in a college or learning centre.

You’d teach students of different ages and abilities. This included preparing young people to take National Qualifications and Highers in this subject.

There is national guidance for Curriculum for Excellence Mathematics and National Qualifications, which you would use when planning your teaching.

You would:

• prepare lessons and teaching materials
• assess students’ progress and mark their work
• set homework
• manage classroom behaviour
• discuss students' progress with parents and carers
• organise study trips, social activities and sports events

You’d encourage the students to take pride in their achievements inside and outside school. You’d support them to build good relationships with other students and teachers and play a positive part in the life of the school and the local community.

You’d help them get the knowledge, skills and attributes they’ll need for a successful and positive life when they leave school.

Sometimes you will need to deal with challenging behaviour. It may be difficult to get some teenagers to study so you’d need to be imaginative and enthusiastic to keep them interested.

You’d need to attend meetings and training courses. You’d work closely with colleagues to plan the school’s timetables, and work with other professionals, such as education psychologists and social workers.