By the end of the year, you'll have earned:

Your questions, answered

Eligibility

What qualifications do I need? 

Degree and subject knowledge

You need a UK bachelor’s degree (2:2 or above) or international equivalent.

Whilst this doesn’t have to be in the subject you’ll be teaching, you’ll need sufficient subject knowledge to lead lessons and deliver the curriculum confidently. This can come from your degree, A-levels, or relevant professional experience.

 Experience could include:

• Teaching or supporting in schools (e.g. as a TA, academic mentor or unqualified teacher)
• Subject-related work experience (e.g. as a lab technician)

 If you’re unsure about your subject knowledge, get in touch with our team.

GCSEs

You will also need GCSE grade C/4 or above in maths and English.  

We are not able to consider candidates with pending GCSEs. Functional skills qualifications are not equivalent to mathematics and English GCSEs. We accept most equivalency test providers. You will need to pass your GCSE equivalency test before you apply to our programme. We will not process your application until you have passed.  

Do you accept overseas qualifications? 

Yes. All overseas qualifications must be verified by UK ENIC to ensure they meet programme requirements. 

Do I need teaching experience to apply?

You do not need school experience to apply for the PGTA, but it is strongly recommended to strengthen your application and consolidate your commitment to making an impact in the classroom.

Can I apply in my final year of university?

Yes. You’re welcome to apply in your final year, as long as your degree has been awarded by the time the programme starts.

Qualifications

What qualifications will I receive?

You’ll gain QTS and a Level 6 Teaching Apprenticeship. A PGCE can also be completed (at additional cost).

Subject knowledge

What level of subject knowledge is required?

You’ll need sufficient subject knowledge to lead lessons and deliver the curriculum confidently. This can come from your degree, A-levels, or relevant professional experience.

Experience could include:

• Teaching or supporting in schools (e.g. as a TA, academic mentor or unqualified teacher)
• Subject-related work experience (e.g. as a lab technician)

If you're unsure about your subject knowledge, get in touch with our team.

Can you support me with subject knowledge before joining?

If you’re successful in the application process, we’ll advise whether you’re eligible for a Subject Knowledge Enhancement course. However, this course does not replace the need to demonstrate subject knowledge at the application stage.

Programme structure

When does the programme start? 

You’ll start your programme in September 2026 and finish the training in July 2027.

Is this a full-time programme?

Yes, you’ll be employed full-time in a school while completing your training.

How will I be assessed?

You'll complete six progress reviews including a QTS assessment to gain QTS and a final end-point assessment to gain your apprenticeship qualification. 

Application process

What are the programme’s right to work and visa requirements? 

To apply for this teaching apprenticeship course, you’ll need to have lived in the UK for at least 3 years before the start of the course to meet funding requirements.  

EEA nationals with settled or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme  who have lived continuously in the EEA, Switzerland, Gibraltar, or the UK for at least the previous 3 years will also be eligible.

 You’ll also need the right to work in the UK.

 You already have this if, for example, you:

• are an Irish citizen
• have settled or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme  (you may still be able to apply)
• have indefinite leave to remain in the UK

 If you do not already have the right to study or work in the UK, you can find out more about the types of visa you can apply for.

 Learn more about training to teach in England as a non-UK citizen. 

Can I apply with overseas qualifications?

Yes, overseas qualifications must be verified by UK ENIC. You’ll also need the legal right to work in the UK for the full programme duration. Please be advised that Teach First cannot sponsor visas. 

Support and development

How will I be supported during the programme?

The PGTA is designed and delivered by Teach First and apprentices will be employed in a partner school. You will be part of a supportive team including experienced colleagues, a school-based mentor and a Teach First Development Leads.