By VIVIENNE NICOLL
TWO city teachers are backing a Scottish Government campaign to persuade more people to consider joining the profession.
Teaching Makes People aims to recruit more teachers and is targeting both university undergraduates and anyone looking for a change of career.
The Scottish Government is investing £88million this year in the hope of recruiting and retaining teachers across the country.
Two teachers from Hillpark Secondary School have joined the campaign to encourage others to take up a career in the classroom.
Chemistry teacher Michael Barker said: "Teaching my subject to students carries with it a lot of responsibility but it is incredibly satisfying and is something I enjoy and feel passionate about.
"My advice for anyone considering a teaching career is to make sure you are willing to work hard and have a real passion for your subject.
"If this is the case, then you should apply for teacher training as the chance to influence so many young people in a positive way is not one you come across every day."
English teacher Zoe Storrie described teaching her subject to young people as "amazing."
She said: "It is a wonderful subject that deals with real world issues in fun and creative ways and as a teacher you get to explore these fantastic stories as well as helping equip young people with a number of essential skills.
"My advice for anyone considering applying for teacher training would be to go for it.
"You are guaranteed to have a whirlwind year in which you will need to work possibly harder than ever before but it is a hugely exciting and rewarding experience."
Deputy First Minister John Swinney said he recognised some local authorities are facing challenges recruiting the right number of teachers for their classrooms.
He added: "That is why we are expanding our successful Teaching Makes People campaign which highlights the opportunity for a hugely rewarding and inspiring career with the chance to make a real difference in the lives of children and young people.
"Thousands more undergraduate students are seriously considering teaching as a career as a direct result of our campaign.
"We want to build on that momentum and reach even more people who may not have considered it as an option with a particular focus on science, technology, engineering, maths, English and home economics."
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