How to Apply for Teacher Training

Starting the process to become a teacher can feel scary, and you may be questioning what exactly you need to apply to become a teacher. 

In this guide, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about applying for a teacher training course, from eligibility to interview.  

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What teacher training course should I apply for? 

The teacher training course you apply for will depend on your experience and where you are in your teaching career.  

Many people believe that you must go to university and study education to become a teacher, however, this is a common misconception and there are other routes available.  

While the university route might be suitable for some more than others, you will generally become more prepared for teaching through a School Centred Initial Teacher Training course. This is a practical, school-based course that often results in both a PGCE and Qualified Teacher Status (QTS).  

Here at Learn with FA1, partnered with Ambition Institute, we provide high-quality PGCE with QTS courses that will have you teaching in front of a class in just 11 months. 

When should I apply for a teacher training course? 

 Applications for teacher training courses usually open in the October before the year you want to start the course. Applications are usually open right until July or August, however, this depends on the training provider.  

If you really want to secure your place on the course, we highly recommend applying sooner rather than later. This is especially important if you are applying for competitive secondary subjects that have a bursary.  

If you are applying for a secondary subject that you don’t have any experience in, you will likely be required to complete a Subject Knowledge Enhancement (SKE). These courses can last anywhere from 8 to 28 weeks, so it’s best to allow plenty of time beforehand.  

Applications are open- apply today! 

Eligibility for teacher training courses 

Applications are open to candidates of all ages, from all backgrounds, even if you have limited experience in teaching.  

To be eligible to train to teach, the Department for Education requires applicants to have: 

• Right to work in the UK: To train to teach in England, you need to be a British or Irish citizen, possess the right to work in the UK or have the appropriate Visa, such as a graduate Visa. 
   
  If you choose to train to teach with us, you will need to prove your existing right to work in the UK. Unfortunately, we cannot offer sponsorship for your Visa. If you are waiting for your Visa, you can still apply, but your application will be put on hold.  
   
• GCSE certificates: You must have at least a grade 4/C in GCSE English and Maths. If you are applying for Primary, you will also need the same for at least one Science subject (Biology, Chemistry and/or Physics). If you don’t have one of your GCSEs, you can complete an Equivalency Test, which will provide you with the same qualification as a GCSE. 
   
  We will need to see your original GCSE certificates in person, so it’s always a good idea to find these before you start your application. If you can’t find or have lost your certificates, you can re-order them through the appropriate awarding body.  
   
• Undergraduate degree or equivalent: You must also have an undergraduate bachelor's degree or equivalent at a 2:2 or above. Your degree does not have to be related to the subject you want to teach, but if we feel like you may need extra support, you might be asked to complete an SKE course.  

If you are an international student and you have been offered a place on the course, you will need to provide an ENIC statement of comparability. This costs £69.90 and will usually take 15 days to complete from the date of payment.

Teacher Training application process 

There are two ways you can apply to train to teach with us. The first is through the Department for Education’s Apply service, and the second is directly through Ambition Institute’s website.  

The application process is very straightforward, and it should only take you a short time to complete. You’ll need to share information on: 

• Your details: This includes your contact details, home address and any other information you deem relevant to your application, such as your availability for interview.  
   
• Your chosen course: This is your preferred route (Primary or Secondary), your chosen subject and whether you’d like to be considered for a part-time or salaried position.  
   
• Your qualifications: You will need to share the results of your GCSEs and degree to ensure you meet the necessary entry requirements. 
   
• Declarations: You will also need to confirm your right to work status and any safeguarding or criminal declarations.  

Once you have completed your application and it has been reviewed by Ambition Institute, we will then review your application ourselves and if you are a suitable candidate, we will invite you for an interview.  

Preparing for your interview  

 We have a few different interview locations based in schools, and we always aim to find one that is local and convenient for you. Our interview panel is made up of headteachers and members of senior leadership, who come with a wealth of knowledge around mentoring new teachers.  

Your interview will consist of structured interview questions, an observation task and a pupil facing task. You will always receive the tasks beforehand to prepare you for the interview, so please make sure you read all instructions carefully. 

Assessment Only route to QTS 

If you are already an experienced teacher, but you’ve not obtained QTS, the assessment only route might be a better choice for you.  

This route is for unqualified teachers who meet specific eligibility criteria and can show they meet teachers' standards without the need of further training.  

No training will be provided with the assessment only route. Instead, you will be required to create a portfolio of evidence across 12 weeks using a platform provided by Ambition Institute.  

For more information on this route, please get in touch with the team by completing the short form below: