9 tips to help you apply for teacher training
From effective preparation, to submitting your application, we’ve broken down the whole process into manageable steps, so you can see exactly what’s involved.
1. Check your qualifications
Although different training providers may have specific recruitment criteria, there are some basic eligibility requirements you’ll need to meet to become a qualified teacher in England. In summary, you’ll need or be working towards:
- a degree
- GCSE grade C / 4 in English and maths — and a science subject if you want to teach primary
You may be able to show you meet the standard in another way if you do not have GCSEs.
If you’re applying for teacher training as an international candidate, find out more about overseas qualifications.
You can get advice about your qualifications by chatting to a teacher training adviser.
2. Get some school experience
If you haven’t had any experience of working with children, think about any transferable skills you have gained which could be used in a classroom, such as communication, organisation and time management. You might have organised seminars or delivered training sessions, or you might have qualifications that could be used in an educational setting.
Whilst school experience isn’t compulsory, it’s a good idea to visit a school, if only to confirm that you are making the right career choice. You can search for and request school experience(opens in new window) to find details of upcoming opportunities in your area.
3. Get a teacher training adviser
All our teacher training advisers are experienced teachers who can provide you with additional support when preparing and applying for teacher training. You could get help with things like finding school experience, choosing the right course for you, funding, and writing a successful application.
Chat by phone, text or email, as little or as often as you need.
Get a teacher training adviser.
4. Attend a teacher training event
Our free events are the perfect opportunity to find out more about teacher training. Chat to teachers, training providers and expert advisers, and get answers to all of your questions.
5. Explore your funding options
There are plenty of funding options available to support you during your teacher training year. You can access tuition fee and maintenance loans regardless of whether or not you have an existing student loan and you will only begin to repay these once you’re earning more than £27,295.
Extra financial support is available if you’re a parent, have an adult dependant or a disability. This support does not need to be paid back.
And for some subjects, you may qualify for a tax-free bursary or scholarship.
The key to managing financially during your training year is careful planning and preparation. Our expert advisers can help you make a plan and find the best funding options for your circumstances.
6. Find the right training course for you
Find postgraduate teacher training(opens in new window) courses in England. You’ll be able to search by location, training provider and subject. When you apply, you have 4 choices for teacher training providers. It’s a good idea to select 4 choices; the more flexible you are, the more likely it is that you’ll secure a place.
When choosing a course provider for your teacher training, it’s important to consider what will suit your individual circumstances.
Get advice on choosing a provider.
7. Write your personal statement
Your teacher training personal statement explains why you want to be a teacher. It’s your chance to show your motivation, commitment, and teaching potential. It’s a crucial part of your application - so it’s worth taking your time on it.
It’s your opportunity to show your enthusiasm for teaching a particular subject. It’s also the place to say why you feel passionate about teaching either primary or secondary.
Read our advice on writing your teacher training personal statement.
8. Arrange your references
You’ll need to provide the details of 2 people who can give you a reference when you apply. Your teacher training provider will then contact them once you accept a place on their course.
They’ll be asked to confirm how they know you and if they know any reason why you should not work with children.
Find out more about the requirements for references.
9. Complete your application
You’re now ready to submit your application and apply for teacher training(opens in new window).
Your application will appear in your chosen providers’ inbox as soon as you click submit, but don’t expect an instant response. Wait for them to consider your application and set up an interview. This can take some time to organise.
Be patient and do attend all of your interviews, if you have been offered them, before making any final decisions.
Get some top tips for interview success.
If you’re interested in enriching the lives of young people, find out more about how you can become a teacher. Or find out what to expect in your initial teacher training.