People thinking of retraining as teachers are invited to a free event at Explore @Bristol on Saturday.

It is organised by the Training and Development Agency for Schools to give potential recruits an insight into what the job involves as well as offering practical advice on training routes.

The TDA has seen a 50 per cent rise in inquiries since the start of the recession a year ago and a 10 per cent increase in actual applications to teacher training in England.

Graham Holley, chief executive of the TDA, said: "Teaching is an increasingly popular career choice for those seeking a fresh challenge – and with good reason. Teaching offers a competitive salary and job security, coupled with great opportunities for progression. We're attracting the brightest and the best, and this Train to Teach event is the ideal opportunity for those interested in teaching to come along and find out more."

Danny Dignan, who was a television producer at the BBC for 13 years, is one who has made the switch.

Mr Dignan qualified after a year and took a job at Gordano School in Portishead teaching English and media studies.

"It is the best thing I ever did," he said.