I've always felt that teaching is truly a vocation. Some young student teachers that were handed to me to supervise were horribly unsuited to the job; they found their one hour solo lessons terrifying and disastrous. I also noticed the most elementary and embarrassing spelling mistakes on the board, and in the marking of exercise books.

The most important characteristic of a good teacher is the ability to inspire the pupils. Not just 'teach' them but to light fires of enthusiasm in them which burn for a lifetime. Young teachers who cannot achieve this become discouraged and despondent.

I do feel that a university degree is essential.

The environment of a school is very different from that of an office or commercial establishment. There is little contact with other adults during the school day, little opportunity to chat or interact. I think some teachers found that rather lonely. At least in an office one can laugh and joke, recount problems or exchange tales about evenings out etc. Being isolated in a room with 30 or so youngsters all day long is only for those who adore the job and find the company of students endlessly interesting and entertaining. Those who don't will eventually leave.