Facts: How to become an SHS Teacher in Ghana

Are you aspiring to become a Senior High School (SHS) teacher in Ghana? If so, this article is here to guide you through the essential steps to turn your dream into reality. Teaching in SHS requires specific qualifications and educational courses, and having just a degree may not be sufficient due to tough competition.

Qualifications for Teaching in SHS:

To be an SHS teacher in Ghana, a minimum requirement is a First degree in a specialized area of study. Having a degree alone might not suffice due to intense competition. Enrolling in a university for educational courses specific to SHS teaching becomes imperative.

Note: While having a First degree is necessary, it doesn’t guarantee immediate qualification, given the pool of waiting teachers with higher qualifications.

Transitioning From Basic School Teaching:

If you’re a basic school teacher aspiring to teach in SHS, here’s a strategic approach:

1. Specialized Course: Gain admission to a university for a specialized SHS education course.
2. Study Leave: Opt for study leave with pay to further your education, focusing on Basic Education.
3. Reapplication: After completing the required courses, reapply for SHS teaching positions based on subject relevance.

Important: Having a degree in Early Childhood Education or Basic Education doesn’t automatically qualify you for SHS teaching; a degree in a subject relevant to SHS is crucial.

Applying to Any University for Teaching in SHS:

To teach in SHS, gaining admission to any university for a specialized SHS education course is pivotal. This step ensures you acquire the necessary skills and knowledge, aligning with SHS education requirements. Choose a university offering courses tailored to SHS education, paving the way for future applications.

Non-Professional Teachers:

For non-professional teachers like Mathematics or Physics degree holders, three essential steps can open doors to SHS teaching:

1. Educational Courses: Enroll in SHS-level educational courses to gain qualifications.
2. Top-Up Programs: Explore top-up programs for additional SHS-level qualifications.
3. Stay Updated: Complete required educational courses to enhance your teaching prospects as an SHS teacher.

Ministry of Education’s Clarification:

The Ministry of Education underscores the need for specific qualifications to teach in public SHS in Ghana. A degree in Early Childhood Education or Basic Education falls short. Instead, a degree in a subject relevant to SHS, meeting NTC and GES criteria, is imperative.

Becoming a Graduate Teacher Through Teachers Training College:

For those aspiring to be graduate teachers, Teachers Training Colleges offer a four-year degree in Basic Education, focusing on KG to JHS levels. The emphasis is on content and strategies tailored to basic school teaching.

Becoming a Graduate Teacher Through University Education:

Becoming a graduate teacher through university education involves pursuing a four-year degree program in education-related courses. This pathway caters to both basic school and SHS levels, with rank and salary consistency. Further education, like pursuing a master’s degree, can enhance qualifications for SHS teaching.

SOURCE: Coverghana.com.gh