PGCEs and getting a teaching job - what's it like?

[v15ben]

Folks,

I'm currently teaching English abroad and I think I want a career in teaching in some form.

Options:

• Come back home, do a PGCEin 2012/13 so I can become a 'proper' teacher and teach in International Schools a few years down the line
• Push on with TEFL, get the CELTA/Trinity Cert and develop my career in this field without coming home.

My long-term goal either way is to teach overseas in several countries.

So, what does the PGCE/teaching jobs market in the UK look like at the moment? I realise both are very competitive, but I'm keen to hear from recent students/new teachers about their real experiences.

Will I struggle to get onto a PGCE?
Will I then struggle to find a job after the PGCE? (even in my first year to get QTS?)
Is the profession in the UK going through a really tough time like many scaremongers seem to tell me?

...or should I just stay out here, keep TEFLing and avoid the UK for a while longer?

[rog007]

No problem getting on to a PGCE, you pay! (unless you can find an increasingly rare school centred course (but also see below)). Jobs afterwards? Depends upon sector, location and subjects. State sector is contracting (you'll see under-performing schools absorbed/closed down (ala NHS)). Private sector just bumping along. Location wise; if you're prepared to go inner city challenged schools you'll not be out of a job. Subject wise; if you go into Maths, Physics, Chemistry or Engineering you may attract a bursary during PGCE and have a better chance of a job. Additionally, if you're a leader, schools are desperate for high quality individuals to lead their organisations, again particularly in inner cities. Good luck!