Lead from the front
Join the UK’s largest teacher training programme and help children facing the biggest barriers discover their potential.
Become a teacher. Lead from day one.
For over 20 years, thousands of teachers and leaders have trained with us to make a lasting difference in schools that need it most.
Join our Training Programme and start earning a salary from your first day in the classroom.
You'll gain hands-on experience, expert training, and one-to-one coaching - all while working towards fully funded PGCE and QTS qualifications.
Our training is rated ‘outstanding’ by Ofsted, so you’ll be supported by expert educators every step of the way.
View our Training Programme brochure
Have a question? Contact our recruitment team
Key details
Duration
Two years (from summer 2026)
Location
Partner schools across England
Fees
None – your training is fully funded
Salary
Earn £20k–£30k from day one
Qualifications
Fully funded PGCE and QTS
Why train to teach with Teach First?
Earn while you train
Start your teaching career, paid from day one in the classroom.
Gain funded qualifications
Earn internationally recognised PGCE and QTS - fully funded.
Fast-track to leadership
Build skills that accelerate your career in and beyond education.
Teach where it matters most
Make a real difference in schools serving disadvantaged communities.
Meet the teachers leading from the front
"Teaching isn’t just about knowledge — it’s about being a role model."
– Tawheed, an English trainee teacher, is helping students in Ilford overcome disadvantage and see their potential, just as his teachers once did for him.
“You can never stop improving - teaching has changed how I see the world and myself.”
– Rachel, an English trainee teacher, relocated to Hastings and found purpose, growth and deep connection with her pupils through the Teach First Training Programme.
"You choose Teach First because of the mission."
– Nicole, a science trainee teacher, swapped the lab for the classroom - and hasn’t looked back since.
“Those everyday interactions remind me just how influential and impactful this role can be.”
– Claire, a trainee primary teacher, returned to the community she grew up in.
"I have no regrets in deciding to switch to teaching – I only wish I’d done it earlier.”
- Joe, a former police officer now Assistant Head, is building a safer future through education.
Are you eligible?
You can apply to our fully funded Training Programme if you have:
- An undergraduate degree – 2:1 or above, or 2:2 for some secondary subjects
- GCSEs at grade 4/C, or equivalent, in English and maths (plus science for primary)
- The right to work in the UK for the full two years (we can’t sponsor visas)
You won’t be eligible if you already have a PGCE or QTS, or have accepted a PGCE place this year.
What the two-year journey looks like
Year 1
Salary: £20,000–£28,000 | £30,000 (London only)
Earn while you train in the classroom from day one.
5-week summer training – get classroom ready
Gain the skills and confidence you need before term starts.
Complete PGCE and QTS
Earn nationally recognised qualifications as you teach.
Teach your own classes
Take on real responsibility and make an impact straight away.
Support from mentors
Receive regular support from your school and Teach First.
Year 2
Salary increase: £30,000–£35,000 | £38,000 (London only)
Your salary will increase as a qualified teacher.
Progress as early career teacher
Build on your first year and grow in confidence.
Leadership coaching
Develop leadership skills with expert support.
Join 18,000+ alumni network
Connect with other leaders and teachers across the UK.
Earning potential: up to £46,525 | £56,959 (London only)
Your salary will increase with experience and responsibility.
With the right support, training, and determination - you can lead from the front.