I am pleased to hear that your experiences with young people have encouraged you to pursue a career in education.

To train as a teacher you need a bachelor's degree or equivalent qualification. For secondary teaching you also need general certificates of secondary education (GCSEs) in mathematics and English at grade C or above. If you are interested in primary school teaching, a GCSE in a science subject at grade C or above is also required.

There are a number of routes into teaching including postgraduate certificate in education courses and the graduate teacher programme. Extensive Information on routes into teaching is available via the TDA website.

If you wish to work as a teaching assistant then I would suggest contacting your local authority. They will be able to advise on the usual requirements for posts in your area and where they tend to be advertised.

I hope this helps.