Arranging your references
Choosing your referees
You'll need to supply contact details for 2 referees with your application form. This is a compulsory part of the application process and you will not be able to submit your application without them.
Choose referees who’ll endorse your:
- teaching passion and potential
- suitability to work with children
- academic abilities
- reliability and professionalism
Suitable referees include:
- your current line manager at work
- previous employers
- a teacher at a school where you work or volunteer
- your university tutor or supervisor
- a supplier or client you’ve worked with (if you’re self-employed)
Referees should not be family members, partners or friends. Training providers will only accept character references if there’s also an academic or professional reference.
If you're applying for a School Direct (salaried) course, one of your references must be from an employer.
If you're struggling to find suitable referees, you can:
- contact one of your chosen training providers for advice
- register with us for support with your teacher training application