A former engineer has become the new face of a campaign to get more people moving into teaching.

Valerie Vincent, now a Maths teacher from The Compton School in North Finchley, is encouraging others to change careers through the Get Into Teaching campaign after she became a teacher, having previously worked as an engineer in France.

Ms Vincent said: "I’d always been intrigued by teaching and imagined it to be a very rewarding career. After two years as an engineer, leaving France to come to London marked a turning point in my life when I realised I needed a new challenge, and felt teaching could offer me this.

"The idea of switching my profession was nerve-wracking, but it felt the right thing to do. I did my research, applied for the training, and haven’t looked back since.

"Teaching at my school really makes me proud and brings daily rewards. For example, when students tell you that now they like Maths, or when they thank you for all the support you have given them during the year.

"I definitely made the right decision to change my career and would advise any other professionals who might be considering it to take the time to think about teaching this new year."

The campaign had a spike in interest this time last year, and now Get Into Teaching will play host to a group of events to support those who want more information before registering their interest.

On January 13 there will be a Train to Teach roadshow at the University of Roehampton, and other online events include an introduction to teacher training on January 8, a session on changing career to teaching on January 15 and a session on gaining school experience on January 29.

Roger Pope, spokesperson for the Get Into Teaching campaign and chairman of the National College for Teaching and Leadership, said: "We know some career changers in Barnet take the plunge in January by deciding to take their skills into the classroom, whilst others might mull over on this important decision a little longer.

"It’s why we are running a series of events throughout the Spring term where people can find out about life in the classroom, the progression opportunities, competitive salaries and bursaries to help financially whilst you train.

"Anyone contemplating teaching should visit the Get Into Teaching website to find out more and register their interest."

For more information or to apply visit https://getintoteaching.education.gov.uk or call the Get Into Teaching line on 0800 389 2500.