Graduate Teacher Programme
The Graduate Teacher Programme (GTP) is an on-the-job training programme that allows graduates to qualify as a teacher while they work. On the GTP you will be employed by a school, earn a salary and work towards qualified teacher status (QTS), all at the same time.
It's a good choice for mature people who want to change to a teaching career but need to continue earning while they train.
To take part in the GTP you can either respond to an advertisement for the GTP programme, apply direct to a GTP provider who will either find you a school, or you will need to find a job in a school to support you through the programme. You will be employed as an unqualified teacher.
Once on the programme your training will be tailored to your own individual needs and lead to qualified teacher status (QTS).
How long does the GTP take?
Training usually takes up to one school year, full time, depending on your previous teaching experience. In some cases, it may be much shorter.
What qualifications do you need?
You need qualifications at least equivalent to a UK bachelors degree and GCSE grade C or above in mathematics and English. If you intend to teach primary or key stage 2/3 (ages 7-14), you must also have achieved a standard equivalent to a grade C in a GCSE science subject.
Where can you do the GTP?
You can complete the GTP in any English or Welsh maintained school, as long as they are prepared to employ you as an unqualified teacher for the duration of the programme. Independent schools can be involved in the GTP, but these applications would have to be self-funded. Pupil referral units cannot employ GTP trainees, or have any involvement with the training.
Is there any financial support available?
Your school will pay you on an unqualified or qualified teacher’s salary (anywhere from £15,113 depending on your responsibilities, experience and location). The TDA may pay the school up to £14,000 to help meet your employment costs as well as a training grant of up to £4,920 depending on the teaching subject and length of programme.
If the school doesn't receive this funding, there is also a self-funded option available, by which the school will meet the costs of the GTP. To find out whether this option is available to you, you will need to enquire at your local GTP provider, known as an employment-based initial teacher training (EBITT) provider.
How do you apply?
Your first step is to find a school willing to employ you and support you through the programme. You then need to apply directly to your local Graduate Teacher Programme provider, known as an employment based initial teacher training (EBITT) provider. They will assess your application and establish what further training you need to meet the standards for qualified teacher status.
Some EBITT providers can help you find a post in a school – otherwise you can look for vacancies in the local and national press, as well as on local authority and recruitment websites.
Bear in mind that competition for places on the programme is strong and any application you make is not guaranteed to be successful. The quality of the school you will be placed in and your qualities as a candidate are important factors in assessing applications.
EBITT providers do not operate in Wales as all employment-based programmes are run by the Welsh Assembly Government.
When should you apply?
EBITT providers usually recruit well in advance of programme start dates. Contact your local EBITT provider about application deadlines.
Becoming a teacher
