How to apply for teacher training

Where you want to study will determine how you should apply.

If you’re looking to apply for a teacher training programme in:

• England – apply using the DfE's 'Apply for teacher training' service
• Northern Ireland – take a look at our dedicated advice
• Scotland and Wales – complete a UCAS Undergraduate application

• 30 June 2024 – If an application is sent to us by 18:00 (UK time) on this day, we’ll send it to the chosen providers. Applications received after this date will automatically be entered into Clearing. 

Once you have submitted your application through UCAS, you may be contacted by the admissions team to provide copies of your supporting documents.

Many training providers receive a large number of applications, so can't interview everyone who meets the essential requirements. In this case, they'll select applicants for interview using the academic and non-academic criteria.

• If you are unable to attend the interview date, get in touch with the training provider to ask if your interview can be rearranged.
• If you’re unable to attend an interview, or change your mind about attending, inform the training provider, and give them the reason why. If you don't, your application with them may be withdrawn.
• You should be given all the information you need about the training provider’s interview process.

Training providers will be on the look-out for a wide range of qualities which would make you a good teacher:

• Passion about teaching
• Confidence with and respect towards children
• Professionalism in both your mindset and the way you conduct yourself
• Personality, reflected in how you present yourself
• Energy, since enthusiasm is infectious
• Resilience that shows you're up to the task.
• Appreciation of the commitment required teaching. 

Even the most prepared interviewees can be nervous about some things. If you can demonstrate you can overcome these in order, you should be fine.

As teaching involves working with children on a daily basis, there are some non-academic requirements you may also need to meet.

If you’re training to be a teacher in Scotland, you are required to be a member of the Protecting Vulnerable Groups (PVG) Scheme. This helps training providers in Scotland to identify potential trainee teachers who are barred from working with children, young people, or vulnerable adults. For more information visit the GTCS In2Teaching.

Some ITE providers may ask for you to have classroom experience before you begin teacher training. You can arrange school experience independently. While it is not essential, if you can spend some time observing and helping out with lessons in a local school before you apply, it will strengthen your application. You can use the experience in your personal statement, showing what you’ve gained from it, and how it has increased your motivation to be a teacher.