TGT Full Form: Trained Graduate Teacher

TGT stands for Trained Graduate Teacher. It is a designation given to teachers who have completed their graduation along with a Bachelor of Education (B.Ed) degree or its equivalent, enabling them to teach students from classes 6 to 10 in schools. TGTs play a crucial role in the educational system, particularly in secondary education, by shaping young minds and preparing them for higher education.

What Is a Trained Graduate Teacher (TGT)?

A Trained Graduate Teacher (TGT) is an individual who has completed both their undergraduate degree and the required teacher training. This designation allows the teacher to handle subjects at the middle and secondary school levels. TGTs are qualified to teach a wide range of subjects, such as Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, Languages, and more, based on their specialization during their academic career.

The TGT qualification is recognized and essential for teaching in both government and private schools, where teachers need to meet certain criteria to ensure that they are equipped with the necessary skills to teach effectively.

Eligibility Criteria for TGT

To become a Trained Graduate Teacher, an individual must fulfill the following criteria:

1. Educational Qualification: The candidate must have a graduation degree (in any subject) from a recognized university.
2. B.Ed. Degree: The candidate should hold a B.Ed. degree or its equivalent to qualify as a teacher.
3. Age Limit: In most cases, the age limit for applying to TGT positions is between 21 to 35 years, but this may vary depending on state or school requirements.

Subjects Taught by TGT

A Trained Graduate Teacher is eligible to teach classes 6 to 10, covering a variety of subjects. Some common subjects include:

• Mathematics: Teaching core math subjects to middle and high school students.
• Science: Teaching Physics, Chemistry, and Biology as individual or integrated subjects.
• Social Studies: Covering History, Geography, Political Science, and Economics.
• Languages: Teaching native languages like Hindi, English, and regional languages.
• Computer Science: In some schools, TGTs may also handle computer science classes, teaching programming, software, and hardware basics.

How to Become a TGT Teacher?

To become a Trained Graduate Teacher, aspiring candidates need to follow these steps:

1. Complete Graduation: The first requirement is to complete a Bachelor’s degree in a subject that they wish to teach. This could be in Science, Arts, or Commerce, depending on the subject they want to specialize in.
2. Pursue a B.Ed. Degree: After graduation, candidates must enroll in a Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) program, which equips them with the pedagogical skills and training needed for teaching.
3. Qualify the Required Exams: In some cases, particularly in government schools, candidates need to pass teacher eligibility exams like the Teacher Eligibility Test (TET) or Central Teacher Eligibility Test (CTET) to secure a teaching position.
4. Apply for TGT Positions: Once the qualifications and tests are completed, candidates can apply for TGT positions in government or private schools based on their subject specialization.

TGT vs PGT: What’s the Difference?

Many people often confuse TGT (Trained Graduate Teacher) with PGT (Post Graduate Teacher). Here’s a clear distinction:

• TGT (Trained Graduate Teacher): Qualified to teach students from classes 6 to 10 and must hold a graduate degree along with a B.Ed. certification.
• PGT (Post Graduate Teacher): Qualified to teach students from classes 11 and 12 and must have completed a postgraduate degree in addition to their B.Ed.

Essentially, PGTs handle higher-level teaching in senior secondary schools, while TGTs focus on secondary education.

Job Opportunities for TGT

After acquiring the TGT certification, teachers can apply for teaching positions in various educational institutions. Some of the sectors offering job opportunities include:

1. Government Schools: Through exams like TET or CTET, candidates can apply for teaching positions in government schools across various states.
2. Private Schools: Many private schools hire TGTs for teaching students in the secondary classes.
3. Kendriya Vidyalayas/Navodaya Vidyalayas: Central government-run schools often have high demand for qualified TGTs for various subjects.
4. Tuition Centers and Coaching Institutes: With the growing demand for after-school tutoring, TGTs are often hired by private coaching institutes to teach school-level subjects.

FAQs About TGT

1. What is the full form of TGT?
The full form of TGT is Trained Graduate Teacher, a professional who is qualified to teach classes 6 to 10.

2. What qualifications are required to become a TGT?
To become a TGT, you need to have a graduation degree and a B.Ed. degree or equivalent teacher training certification.

3. What subjects can a TGT teach?
A TGT can teach a variety of subjects depending on their specialization during graduation, including Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, and Languages.

4. Is TGT different from PGT?
Yes, TGTs teach students in classes 6 to 10, while PGTs (Post Graduate Teachers) teach students in classes 11 and 12.

5. Can a TGT teach primary school classes?
TGTs are primarily qualified to teach middle and secondary school students, but some schools may allow them to teach primary classes based on their qualifications and experience.

Conclusion

Becoming a Trained Graduate Teacher (TGT) is a respected and rewarding career path for those who wish to teach secondary school students. With a graduation degree and a B.Ed. certification, TGTs are equipped to shape the minds of future generations, making a significant impact on their educational journey. Whether in government or private schools, TGTs play a vital role in delivering quality education to students across the country.