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Teacher Degree Apprenticeships

The Teacher Degree Apprenticeship is a new route to become a qualified teacher, offering a salaried, on-the-job experience while you study for a bachelor's degree and gain Qualified Teacher Status (QTS). This pathway is ideal for those who do not yet have an undergraduate degree but want to build a career in education.

What is a Teacher Degree Apprenticeship?

Teacher Degree Apprenticeships combine real classroom experience with academic learning through a university partner. Over a four-year, full-time programme, apprentices work in a school setting and study towards a degree.

This apprenticeship is suited for individuals who:

  • Are committed to entering the teaching profession
  • Want to earn a salary while training in a school environment
  • Do not yet hold an undergraduate degree but aim to achieve one alongside QTS

How do they work?

The Teacher Degree Apprenticeship is designed to integrate work experience and academic study, allowing you to develop your teaching skills while completing a degree. Here’s how the programme typically operates:
Training balance
Apprentices will balance time between working in a school, applying teaching strategies and managing lessons, and university-based studies, leading to a bachelor’s degree.
Support structure
Apprentices benefit from a supportive network, including school mentors and university tutors who offer guidance and feedback to ensure steady progress.
Salary
Apprentices will receive a salary which will earn an income while qualifying as a teacher.
Qualification
By the end of the apprenticeship, you will have achieved both a bachelor’s degree and Qualified Teacher Status (QTS), enabling you to teach in England.

Who can apply?

The Teacher Degree Apprenticeship is available to candidates who meet specific eligibility requirements:

  • Be a UK resident for at least three years (exceptions apply under certain resettlement schemes, such as for Afghan and Ukraine resettlements)
  • Be at least 16 years old

To meet the Teaching Degre Apprenticeship's academic requirements, you should have:

  • GCSEs in English and mathematics at grade 4 (C) or above (science GCSE is also required for primary teaching)
  • A-levels or equivalent Level 3 qualifications, as set by individual training providers

Each university and school provider may have additional or specific entry requirements. Prospective applicants are encouraged to contact providers directly to confirm eligibility.

Programme duration

The Teacher Degree Apprenticeship generally spans four years, incorporating full-time work experience and academic studies. Some schools or providers may offer flexible options, so it’s advisable to discuss specific schedules with your chosen provider.

Why choose a Teacher Degree Apprenticeship?

This apprenticeship offers a distinctive opportunity for individuals who want to enter the teaching profession through a hands-on, supportive route. The key benefits include:

  1. Earn while you learn

    As an apprentice, you’ll receive a salary, making it financially manageable to gain a degree without taking on student loans.

  2. Practical teaching experience

    From the start, you’ll work in a real classroom, developing practical skills and confidence as you progress.

  3. Mentorship and support

    Ongoing guidance from experienced teachers and university tutors will help you excel both academically and professionally.

  4. Path to QTS

    Upon successful completion, you’ll have QTS. QTS is required to teach in maintained primary, secondary and special schools in England, which receive their funding via the local authority. Primary and Secondary academies in England can currently employ teachers without QTS, but most still require their teachers to have it. 

How to apply

Applications for Teacher Degree Apprenticeships can be viewed through the Find Teacher Training platform, where new courses and details are frequently updated. Each provider may have unique application requirements and timelines, so it’s recommended to check directly with the provider or explore UCAS for more options and information. Each provider may have unique application requirements and timelines, so it’s recommended to check directly with the provider or contact ITT.engagement@education.gov.uk.

You can also explore UCAS for other undergraduate courses.

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