To train as an Early Years, primary, or secondary teacher, you need GCSEs in English and maths at grade C/4 or above, plus GCSE science for EYITT and primary ITT. A full Level 6 bachelor's degree in any subject is required. IELTS with a 6.5 average can meet English requirements. Those without a Level 6 degree may complete a one-year top-up degree. During training, maintaining English and maths skills, including completing a GCSE Maths Higher Course, is mandatory.
For Early Years Initial Teacher Training (EYITT), primary or secondary Initial Teacher Training (ITT), you need GCSE English and maths at grade C or 4 or above, plus a full Level 6 bachelor’s degree in any subject. You also need GCSE science at grade C or 4 or above for EYITT and primary ITT.
What GCSEs do I need?
For EYITT, primary or secondary ITT, you must hold GCSEs in English and maths at grade C or 4 or above. If you are applying for EYITT or primary ITT, you must also hold GCSE science at grade C or 4 or above.
Functional Skills qualifications do not meet the entry requirements for teacher training.
Can I use qualifications gained outside the UK?
If you gained your qualifications outside the UK, including in Ireland, you must obtain a UK ENIC Statement of Comparability from UK ENIC.
Can IELTS meet the English requirement?
The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) can meet the English requirement if you achieved an average score of at least 6.5, with a score of at least 6 in each area.
What degree do I need?
For EYITT, primary or secondary ITT, you must hold a full Level 6 bachelor’s degree in any subject.
You can apply if you are about to finish your bachelor’s degree, but you must complete it before the teacher training programme starts.
A master’s degree or Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) is not sufficient unless you also hold a full Level 6 bachelor’s degree in any subject.
What can I do if I do not have a Level 6 degree?
If you do not have a degree, or you only hold a Foundation Degree or Level 5 qualification, you may be able to complete a one-year top-up degree to gain the required Level 6 degree.
Best Practice Network has a relationship with Nottingham Trent University, which offers a 12-month online top-up degree in Childhood and Education Studies.
This course is designed for people who hold a Level 5 qualification and want to top it up to Bachelor of Arts honours degree level. It is delivered online and offers a flexible approach, allowing you to fit your studies around your personal and working life.
What English and maths skills must I maintain during ITT?
All student teachers must maintain their fundamental English and maths skills, regardless of any previous qualifications.
The Department for Education’s Initial Teacher Training criteria and supporting advice require ITT providers to ensure that student teachers can demonstrate competence in the following fundamental skills before they are recommended for teacher status:
- English, including speaking and listening, reading and writing.
- Maths.
You must undertake any work needed to address gaps or shortfalls in these skills in addition to the other parts of your training.
The ITT curriculum includes opportunities to practise and develop your speaking, listening, reading and writing skills as part of how you evidence your learning. These include writing reflections, engaging with research and delivering presentations.
To practise your maths skills and ensure they remain at GCSE level, you must complete a GCSE Maths Higher Course during the programme, regardless of your previous qualifications. Your personal tutor can guide you through this course.