New market research has found that more than nine in ten teachers in the West Midlands say their students have had a positive influence on their outlook on life.

More than 82% of teachers say that some of the most profound moments in their career have been when a student has taught them something about themselves. Moreover, 90% of teachers agree learning ‘life lessons’ from their students makes them feel that they made the right decision to become a teacher.

The national survey of 1,250 teachers in England was carried out for Get Into Teaching, the campaign aimed at encouraging people to consider teaching as a career. It explores the life “lessons” teachers themselves say they learn from their interactions with students.

The findings coincide with the launch of a new online video of teachers across the country revealing the life “lessons” they have learnt from working with young people. Created by teachers in collaboration with Get into Teaching, the short  film – called ‘Student Lessons Shape Lives’ – captures a range of heart-warming personal accounts highlighting the fulfilling and memorable interactions from school that makes it a career like no other. Luke Price, 28, Assistant Head and French teacher at Q3 Academy Great Barr in Birmingham, said: 

“My role as a teacher is unique in that I get to inspire the next generation while I’m also learning through all the interactions with my students. Teaching can be hard work, but it’s fulfilling knowing that I’m playing an important part in young people’s lives and in a role with opportunities for me to grow and develop as a person too.

“For me, one of the most memorable life lessons I think my students have taught me is the importance of self-care and resilience. I’ve taught some truly inspiring students and it’s through these interactions that I’ve come to understand how resilient I myself can be.”

Tax-free bursaries of up to £27,000 to train as a teacher are available in selected subjects, and as a newly qualified teacher you’ll start on a minimum salary of £28,000 to £34,000, depending on location.

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

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