I want to teach secondary school English (preferably A-Level) but...?

Question

...I have not been permitted to do a PGCE course as I do not have a C or above in GCSE maths. I do, however, have A*'s in English Lit and Lang at GCSE level, an English Lit A-Level in which I scored 100% on three papers, and a 2:1 degree in English.

I don't have the maths GCSE because I am dyscalculaic, something that was only diagnosed whilst I was at university. My maths grade was an E on the foundation paper, and I am pretty sure that a C grade is not within my abilities (and in any case lack the money and time to attempt a re-sit)

What I want to know is - are there any other ways into secondary teaching for me? I know I have the ability and drive to be an excellent teacher, but as it stands I am not sure where to go. I have explained the situation to all the universities I applied for to teach the PGCE and, while they agreed the rule was unfair, particularly considering my skills in English, they maintained that they had to play by the rules.

Is there anything else I can do?

Answer 1

When you are hired to be an English teacher, the first year you are a rookie and teach low level classes with maybe an elective like drama, journalismm, or yearbook thrown in to sweeten the pot.  The advanced placement classes are taught by tenured faculty, usually the department chair.  At this point in your career, I don't believe you would get a call-back interview.  That doesn't mean you should give up on your dreams.  Bet you would make a great journalist and consumer advocate.  Good luck.