If you feel you have a flair for conveying your own knowledge of and enthusiasm for history to others, teaching is definitely an option – whether you do this as a PGCE course after your history degree, or you are more interested in training as a primary teacher where history will be one of a number of subjects you are likely to teach.

The government is very keen to get new teachers on board, so there are perks in the way of grants and remission of your student loan if you stay in teaching for a set period of time. Make no mistake, though, teaching isn't an easy ride! It demands commitment, patience, a lot of hard work (forget the holidays for a moment and think of the evenings/weekends you may have to spend preparing lesson plans!).

• See our guides to getting into teaching
• Beginner Primary School Teacher
• Beginner Secondary School Teacher

Teach First

Teach First is a charity working to end educational inequality, training leaders to inspire young people from disadvantaged backgrounds to achieve their full potential. The Teach First training programme offers a two-year, paid position in a school. You’re placed into a school straight away in September and gain Qualified Teacher Status in your first year and complete your Newly Qualified Teacher placement in year two. 

Find out more about the Teach First training programme (external website) 

Work experience and voluntary work

You'll have a good idea of what teaching in a secondary school is like from being a student in one! There are some opportunities in primary schools for volunteers to help in class, or with after-school clubs and activities. However, schools have to be very careful on who they allow to work closely with vulnerable young children and may have a policy of only accepting pupils' parents and other mature helpers, and will do police checks on them, which can take time. If you would like to volunteer or gain work experience in a primary school, this is probably best organised through your careers adviser rather than making an approach directly yourself - they can effectively act as your referee.