About us
Together, we’re rewriting the future for children facing educational disadvantage.
Why we exist
Too many children in the UK grow up in poverty, denied the chances they need to succeed.
They’re more likely to fall behind at school, leave without strong grades, and miss out on the futures they deserve.
Education is the key to unlocking potential and opening doors.
That’s why we’re building a movement of:
- Change Makers – the teachers and leaders driving our mission
- Change Partners – the organisations, donors and supporters who make it possible
Working together, united in the belief that no child’s educational success should be limited by their socio-economic background.
Why it matters
Nothing changes unless we step up. These numbers show why we must act – and why we won’t stop until every child can thrive.
Over 2 million
children in England fall behind at school due to poverty and inequality.
18 months behind
is how far pupils on free school meals are by GCSEs.
These inequalities aren’t inevitable. And we’re tackling them head on.
How we create change
We work with schools in the most deprived areas — helping them recruit, train and retain brilliant teachers, and strengthening leadership at every level.
We do this by:
- training new teachers through our flagship programme
- supporting school leaders with expert development
- partnering with those who want to change education for good
Ready to make a difference where it matters most?
Train to teach, support your school, or help fund a fairer education system.
More ways to get involved:
We do whatever it takes to tackle the barriers our pupils face...because we know that without this, learning just can’t happen.
Our impact
Since 2003, we've trained more new teachers than any other provider in England and supported thousands of school leaders in the poorest communities.
Working alongside schools, partners, funders and education sector organisations, we've reached over 1.5 million pupils - including 1 in 3 secondary pupils experiencing disadvantage.
Our teachers have raised aspirations, improved outcomes and helped give pupils the opportunities they deserve.
And we’re just getting started.
Be part of the movement changing education
Learn more about the people behind Teach First – and how you can get involved.
