Bishop Burton invites engineers to consider new career path in teaching

The Engineering department at Bishop Burton College is opening its doors to engineers who may be interested in a career change.  

The well-established and dynamic engineering department is looking to swell its ranks with industry experts who could be considering a change of direction in their career or would like to share their wealth of expertise and give something back to the community.  

The college is on the hunt for engineering professionals who would like to consider moving into teaching. Given the vocational and technical nature of the provision at Bishop Burton, the college has long valued the unique perspective professionals who have worked in industry can bring to the learning experience.

Head of Land Based, Helen Martin, said: “Nothing beats life experience within industry to inspire and provide first-hand knowledge and understanding of the concepts students are exploring. Engineering is an area where industry experience is invaluable in helping prepare students for the world of work with the insight and capability they need to succeed and we are looking to grow our fantastic team.”  

For those who are interested in exploring teaching in engineering, the college is hosting a free to attend event on Thursday 1 December from 4pm to 6pm. This will provide interested parties with an introduction to what being a lecturer at the college entails and how rewarding and enriching a career within education can be. Attendees will be treated to a demonstration of the college’s cutting-edge Engineering Department and hear from the expert team on what it’s like to move from industry into teaching and how Bishop Burton can help develop their careers.  

Professional engineers should be at home within the department’s impressive facilities. Bishop Burton has dedicated engineering workshops that perfectly replicate industry, preparing students to go straight into employment on completion of their courses. Specialising in land-based vehicles including JCBs, tractors and horticulture equipment, the students have access to a range of tools, training equipment (including welding simulators) and machinery. New recruits to the department will work alongside students in this environment, imparting their skills and knowledge.  

Curriculum Area Manager for Land Based at the college, Andy Graham, who heads up the department, owned his own engineering business for many years before entering teaching. Andy said: “My previous career within industry means I am able to place the theoretical and practical skills students develop in context for them. I know first-hand what it takes to succeed within the sector and can relate directly with the student’s experiences. I find helping these young people to flourish and grow as engineers incredibly rewarding – knowing I’m helping the next generation become highly skilled and employable.”  

No previous teaching experience is required, just a motivation and enthusiasm to pass on knowledge and skills to others and the college is very supportive of part-time and flexible working.

Helen further commented: “We appreciate that a work-life balance is very important in this day and age and so we are happy to consider full-time or part-time positions for the right candidates. We can also offer flexible working to accommodate prior commitments. What is important to us is finding the right individual who can offer a wealth of direct hands-on industry experience that can inspire and empower our students. Full support and training will be available to those who want to embark on a new career journey with us.”  

The recruitment event is being held 4pm-6pm on Thursday 1 December and booking is now open on Eventbrite for anyone interested via the link below.   

www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/get-into-teaching-engineering-tickets-465690842847

To discover more about Engineering at Bishop Burton, please visit www.bishopburton.ac.uk/subjects/engineering.