Teaching as a profession has become increasingly competitive and offers graduates some of the best opportunities for career progression, according to an education recruiter.
The Training and Development Agency for Schools (TDA) said the profession had recently been attracting top graduates and highly skilled people looking to switch careers.
TDA chief Luke Graham said: "With huge increases in numbers of people enquiring about careers in teaching and all teacher recruitment targets being met for the first time ever in 2009, the profession is attracting increasing numbers of top quality graduates and career changers."
His comments came in response to recent surveys that found many graduates and members of the public do not consider teaching as financially rewarding career or one that provides opportunities for promotion.
According to a High Fliers poll of 1,000 UK graduates, 80% underestimate the starting salary of a teacher, perhaps explaining why it does not always attract the best graduates.
Also, an ICM survey of members of the public showed that teaching was low down on the list of professions ranked on the basis of career progression opportunities, emerging just above journalism and human resources.
However, Mr Graham added: "Teaching is becoming more and more competitive. It is no longer just a safe job that is all right for a fall-back."
