Thousands more people are considering a career in teaching as a result of the SNP Government’s latest recruitment campaign, according to early evaluation findings.
The Teaching Makes People campaign was launched by Deputy First Minister John Swinney MSP in February, targeting undergraduates studying science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) subjects as well as people currently working in STEM industries.
The campaign visited 11 universities and recruitment fairs, supported by outdoor and targeted digital advertising, radio features and a dedicated teaching website Teaching Makes People.
Early evaluation results show:
Almost 3,500 people visited the Teaching Makes People stand, with 1,090 discussing a career in teaching.
More than 42,000 unique visitors to the campaign website and more than 2,600 registered for updates about applying for a postgraduate teacher education course.
More than 36% of STEM undergraduates surveyed, after seeing the campaign, thought teaching was their ideal career, with almost 60% actively considering going into the profession
A 21 percentage point increase in the proportion considering applying for a post graduate diploma in education (PGDE) with most interest coming from second and third year students - a key campaign aim
40% of people who had seen the campaign video took action, such as seeking advice on a career in teaching.
The Deputy First Minister said:
“This campaign is a central plank in the SNP Government’s efforts to increase the number of teachers in Scotland, especially in STEM subjects. It is fantastic to see it hitting the mark with STEM undergraduates, whom we are keen to encourage. Teaching is a rewarding career where their skills and knowledge can make a positive difference to children’s lives.”
Added Kenneth Gibson:
“Last year’s hugely successful SNP Government teacher recruitment campaign helped drive a 19% increase in PDGE student intakes to Scottish universities compared to the previous year. Based on these early and very positive evaluation results, the significant increase in undergraduate students seriously considering a career in teaching is greatly encouraging.
“A key Teaching Makes People campaign aim was to generate a longer term shift in perception about a career in teaching. The increased interest among second and third year STEM undergraduates suggests it is doing just that.”
ENDS
