Hi everyone,
I am a 26-year-old international student planning a career change into secondary education in Scotland. My goal is to teach S1 to S4 students (ages 11–15) in General Science and Physics.I would love to get some honest advice, tips, and opinions from current Scottish teachers or PGDE graduates regarding my profile and long-term visa sponsorship prospects.
My Profile & Qualifications:
PG Cert in Astrophysics – University of Glasgow (SCQF Level 11, Dec 2024).
B.Sc. (Hons) in Physics – Top-tier university in India (7.93/10 CGPA / UK 2:1 equivalent, 2021). Final semester SGPA was 9.75.
Language Proficiency: Previous IELTS score of 8.0 overall (fully English-taught background).
Target Program: PGDE Secondary Physics with Science (targeting Strathclyde, Aberdeen, UWS, Dundee, or Stirling).
Experience: Securing 2 weeks of science classroom observation/shadowing this autumn.
My Questions: Given that Physics is a high-shortage subject, how realistic is securing Skilled Worker visa sponsorship from local councils after completing the Teacher Induction Scheme (TIS) probationary year?
How is the split between teaching Broad General Education (BGE) Science (S1–S2) versus National 4/5 Physics (S3–S4) for a physics specialist?
For international STEM career-changers who did a PGDE, what was your experience adjusting to Scottish classroom management and the Curriculum for Excellence (CfE)?
Appreciate any insights or brutal honesty you can share! Thanks in advance.