Teacher Training for Graduates
Training Options
The majority of graduates train to teach by undertaking a
Postgraduate Certificate in Education
(PGCE).
This is
studied full time over one academic year, although there are some
part-time study options. The Graduate Teacher Programme
(GTP)
(an
employment-based route) is an increasingly popular option.
Most training providers require PGCE and
GTP applicants to have experience in a school with children /
young people of the age they want to teach. Click on the
following link if you would like to view the full range of
teacher training options
for graduates.
The prospects guide
Teacher Training: Getting Started outlines some of the issues
to consider when looking at your options.
The Training and Development Agency for
Schools
(TDA)
website is the
most comprehensive resource with up-to-date information on
routes into teaching, where to study and information on bursaries
and finance.
If you would like to discuss your options with a careers adviser
please contact us by phone (01904 876711/10) or email
careers@yorksj.ac.uk or call in to the service to book an
appointment.
Applying for a Postgraduate Certificate in Education
(PGCE)
The Graduate Teacher Training Registry (GTTR) deals
with applications for both primary and secondary PGCE
courses. It also manages applications for some Further Education
teaching courses, some distance learning providers and certain
School Centred Initial Teacher Training (SCITT) programmes. Online
applications are made through the Graduate Teacher Training Registry
website.
See also the Applying for a Postgraduate
Certificate in Education online guide.
Applying for the Graduate Teacher Programme
(GTP)
GTP applications are made to Education Based Initial Teacher
Training Providers (
EBITTs
).
See the TDA website to search for the
EBITTs
operating in the area of the country where you want to train. Each
organisation has their own application procedures and deadlines but
it is likely that you will need to write a personal statement in
support of your application.
Application Advice
Competition for entry to PGCE courses and for GTP training
places can be fierce. Writing a good personal statement can be the
key to getting a interview and an offer of a place. Applicants
have limited space (just 47 lines) to write their personal
statement in order to persuade training providers that they
should be invited for an interview. Make an appointment with one of
our career development advisers if you would like help and
advice on making a successful application (contact details on our
homepage).
The
Teacher Training Application Form Assistant pages in
the TDA website provides a 5 step guide to writing a first rate
personal statement. Examples are provided as a guide, but you
should emphasise your own individual experiences. A word version of
this aimed at YSJ students can be downloaded via this link.
PGCE Selection Interviews
If you application is successful and you are shortlisted for a
PGCE place you will be invited to attend an interview or selection
day. The Careers Service will be organising PGCE interview
workshops to provide advice on what to expect and practice
exercises. You are welcome to arrange a careers appointment to
discuss interview technique and any areas of concern.