Going from memory here...
I think to become an ATPL instructor you must have completed the ATPL exams then after that its down to the employer: i.e. you're previous life experience and suitability, wouldn't be too hard if you are good at teaching and understand the material...
In terms of the industry then it all depends on how the airlines do this winter...a good winter will help the recruitment side, a bad one will only make it worse with more guys unemployed but the signs arn't as bad as 1 year ago.