It asks how providers of GTP training should become fully accredited, particularly where they are already providers of mainstream initial teacher training (ITT).

The GTP, which enables people to train while working in a school and being paid a salary, has grown substantially since it was introduced in 1997 and now offers around 5,400 places per year - more than 10 per cent of all teacher training places in England.

Changes in 2002 led to the creation of designated recommending bodies (DRBs) to offer GTP training and award places to individual candidates. Designation was designed to last for three years, during which DRBs were expected to prepare for full accreditation as ITT providers.

The consultation paper seeks views on how the accreditation process can best be managed to reduce bureaucratic burdens on DRBs whilst maintaining the quality assurance required of fully accredited ITT providers.

The paper also seeks views on whether the TTA should become more pro-active in inviting bids to deliver initial teacher training (ITT) places in subjects and parts of the country that are less well provided for at present.

Michael Day, Director of Quality and Funding for the TTA, said:

“The GTP is making a substantial contribution to attracting good new teachers, particularly in those secondary subjects where it is hardest to fill every place in mainstream training.

“The reforms of two years ago steered us in the right direction for the future of the programme, and we now need to think further ahead. We look forward to considering the views from a wide range of people and organisations.”

The consultation paper is published at get into teaching. Views are sought by 30 June.

Notes for editors

Details about the GTP are available get into teaching link.

The TTA was established in 1994 and its purpose is to raise standards by attracting able and committed people to teaching and by improving the quality of training for teachers and the wider school workforce.

The Secretary of State announced on 29 March 2004 that he is extending the TTA’s remit to include training for school support staff, and continuing professional development for teachers.

Prospective applicants to Initial Teacher Training and the Graduate Teacher Programme should visit the get into teaching link or contact the Teaching Information Line: tel 0845 600 0991, or e-mail teaching@ttainfo.co.uk.

Media enquiries

TTA Press Office Tel: 020 7023 8080
Out of hours: 07771 934629
e-mail: pressoffice@teach-tta.gov.uk

General TTA enquiries

 020 7925 3700