A DORSET teacher is backing a new campaign trying to inspire people to train as teachers.

The Get Into Teaching campaign from the Department for Education seeks to inspire and support talented people to train as teachers.

Tommy Ekers, 27, a primary teacher at Atlantic Academy on Portland who has been teaching for three years, is supporting the campaign.

He said: “Deciding to train as a teacher when I was 24 years old has always felt like a natural and positive career move, after previously working in the outdoor education sector and studying environmental science at university.

"It’s a role that allows you to go home each day knowing you’ve made a difference whilst teaching subjects that you’re passionate about.

"For me, the best part about teaching is bringing your own personality and interests to the profession, while working as part of a varied group of people who you can learn from."

This comes as new data by Censuswide, which surveyed 2,000 final year students in England including more than 150 from the South West, shows four out of five say they felt anxious about making the right decision on what their future career should be, and two thirds saying they feel at times overwhelmed and unable to make a definitive decision.

Mr Ekers added: "It's particularly rewarding taking on a role where you feel supported by both those in your personal and professional life. Every lesson can help shape a life, and the impact of a good teacher can go far beyond the classroom.

"As a primary school teacher, working with the same group of students throughout the year, you have a real opportunity to build rapport with the class. After working for three years in one school you really start to feel like part of the community.”

Roger Pope, spokesperson for the Get Into Teaching campaign and a National Leader of Education, said: “Our research highlights just how apprehensive most of today’s university students and graduates feel about making the wrong decision when it comes to their future career path.

“I would encourage anyone who has an inkling that a career in the classroom could appeal, to take the first step and visit the Get Into Teaching website to find out more.”

The Get Into Teaching service has experienced teacher training advisers available to give free support and advice for anyone interested in teaching as a career.

To find out more visit: https://getintoteaching.education.gov.uk or call the Get Into Teaching line on 0800 389 2500.