If you want to be responsible for teaching children more than just the academics, a Christian school is the place to look for gainful employment. Aside from teaching children math, English, Geography and Science, an ACSI (Association of Christian Schools International) school includes the spirituality of their students in their curriculum, Bible lessons and also concentrates on Christian values and prayer. A teacher in this type of school is responsible for developing their student’s faith as well as their minds. If you think this is a role you’ll find very rewarding, here are some tips to help you find the right job. (Image Credit: Tim Wright)
What Qualifications Will be Required?
If you want a career in Christian education you may be required to obtain a bachelor’s, master’s or doctoral degree, depending on the level you plan to teach at. However, if you decide you want to teach in a private school, the same credentials do not apply. There are also a number of other ACSI approved courses you can take, either online or by correspondence if you want to gain certification or continue your educational development. When you’ve gained the appropriate qualification, it’ll be time for you to look for a job.
What Are Your Career Options?
For graduates of a Christian education program, there are several career options, including:
- Seminary Professor – a seminary is an institution of higher education that teaches religious professionals. These schools can be single or multiple denominations.
- Christian School Teacher – this level of teaching is aimed at K-12 grade students and includes biblical education in the curriculum.
- Director of Religious Education – this role means you work for a specific church or program. Your responsibilities will be designing educational programs in religious institutions. You may also be required to hire and train teachers as well as perform admission duties.
What Makes a Good Christian Teacher Aside from a Formal Qualification?
A good Christian teacher needs to have humility as well as intrinsically enjoy teaching. How can you tell whether you’ve got it? There are a few things you need to ask yourself to answer that question. Firstly, is teaching what you love to do? Is it your passion? To use your skill effectively, you need to be a good public speaker. If you can’t share your knowledge in a persuasive way, then teaching is not your gift.
Another quality you need to be a successful Christian educator is the willingness to get the necessary training and to continue to expand your knowledge. The most important skill you’ll need is a good knowledge of the English language. Learning other languages will be useful but are not essential. History, philosophy and natural sciences are also areas in which you need to be knowledgeable.
Whatever level you decide to teach at, it’s almost certain this choice of career will be a rewarding one, both on a personal and spiritual level. Becoming a certified teacher is not the end of the line as you’ll be expected to continue your education classes in order to keep up with new techniques and teaching methods.
