Registering and applying FAQs

Q: Do I have to register with the TDA to become a teacher?
Q: What are the benefits of registering with the TDA?
Q: How do I apply to train as a teacher?
Q: What should I include in my personal statement on the teacher training application form?
Q: What will my interview be like?
Q: Do I need classroom experience before I apply?
Q: How long do I need to spend in a school prior to applying for training?
Q: How can I arrange to spend time in a school?
Q: Do I have to register with the TDA to become a teacher?
A: No, registering is not a compulsory part of any teacher training application and selection process. However, by registering with the TDA you will gain access to ongoing support and advice as you progress towards becoming a teacher.
Q: What are the benefits of registering with the TDA?
A: Register with the TDA and you will be able to access advice from our education consultants and take advantage of a range of other services that will help you towards a career in teaching. You will also receive a copy of our brochure, which is a handy guide to getting into teaching. In addition, you will receive an e-mail newsletter, to keep you in touch with news about teaching and teacher training.
Q: How do I apply to train as a teacher?
A: It depends on which route into teaching you would like to take. Each way has its own application process.

If you want to apply for an undergraduate degree course leading to qualified teacher status (QTS) you need to submit an application via the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS).

If you intend to take postgraduate initial teacher training (ITT) you should apply via the Graduate Teacher Training Registry (GTTR) (England only). If you are a graduate and would like to apply for the Teach First programme, which places top graduates in challenging schools, you can do so online at www.teachfirst.org.uk

You may prefer to follow an employment-based programme, such as the graduate teacher programme (GTP), the registered teacher programme (RTP) or the overseas trained teacher programme (OTTP). If so, you apply by contacting your local employment-based routes initial teacher training providers (EBRITTPs). In Wales, employment-based programmes are run by the Welsh Assembly, but you should contact the teaching information line (TIL) first on 0845 6000 991.

Q: What should I include in my personal statement on the teacher training application form?
A: Training providers will want to know why you believe that you will enjoy teaching – and, more specifically, why you will enjoy teaching your subject. Emphasise the relevance of your previous studies, career and experiences to the subject and/or age group you have chosen for teacher training. Give examples to illustrate each point, including examples from your school experience and from any other experience you may have of working with children.
Q: What will my interview be like?
A: Interviews usually take place over a full day and the training provider will let you know the programme for the day. You will be asked about your experience of working with young people, your commitment to teaching and your relevant knowledge and skills. The content of the day will vary according to the training route you have chosen. It is likely to include an individual interview and possibly group tasks such as group discussions, presentations and teaching mini-lessons. For secondary courses you may be asked to bring a portfolio showing your achievements in your subject. The aim of the day is for you and the interviewers to find out whether teaching is right for you.
Q: Do I need classroom experience before I apply?
A: Yes, you need classroom experience, either voluntary or paid, to support your application. School experience will also give you the opportunity to see inside a modern classroom and observe lessons. You will find out how teaching has changed since you were at school and this may help you decide whether teaching is for you. If you have no classroom experience, you may be offered an interview that is conditional on your obtaining experience first – but this will depend on your chosen subject.
Q: How long do I need to spend in a school prior to applying for training?
A: It is difficult to quantify the amount of experience needed because success at interview depends on the insight you gain through the classroom experience rather than its duration. Nevertheless, some course providers do specify minimum periods of experience required at the time of application, so check this with your chosen providers. In the absence of any specific advice, consider spending a couple of weeks in a primary school if you want to become a primary school teacher. For secondary, a day or two of school experience may be sufficient to secure an interview.
Q: How can I arrange to spend time in a school?
A: There are several options open to you. You may wish to arrange your own visit or to volunteer for work in a school in your area. Alternatively, the teaching information line (TIL) can help organise a one-day ‘open school’ placement for you (telephone 0845 6000 991). Another option may be to apply for the three-day taster course which is available in some subject areas: the TIL arranges these courses for people who are close to making a decision to apply for teacher training. The TIL can also arrange for a teaching advocate to give you a call at a time that is convenient to you. Teaching advocates are practising teachers who will be pleased to answer your questions about the profession and about teaching your subject.