On the Graduate Teacher Programme (GTP), you can obtain qualified teacher status (QTS) while training and working in a paid teaching role. You will be employed by a school and earn a salary, so this on-the-job programme is ideal if you want to become a teacher, but need to earn an income while you train.
Please see the unqualified teacher pay scale for details on how much you could earn.
The GTP normally takes one school year, working full-time, to complete. In some cases, depending on previous teaching experience, this period may be shorter.
Once you are on the GTP, the programme can be tailored to meet your individual training needs as you work towards QTS. Some providers also offer the GTP on a part-time basis.
Who is eligible for the GTP?
To apply for a place on the GTP:
- you must have a UK bachelor's degree or equivalent qualification, and
- you must have achieved a standard equivalent to a GCSE grade C in mathematics and English.
Additionally, if you intend to teach primary (3-11):
- you must also have achieved a standard equivalent to a grade C in a science GCSE.
Visit the National Academic Recognition Centre (NARIC) website to find out whether your qualifications are of an equivalent level to UK GCSEs and an undergraduate degree.
The GTP meant that I could carry on working at my school and get home for my children. And being paid while you train certainly makes a difference to a career changer like me.
Val Anderson, secondary school science teacher
Where to complete the GTP
You can complete the GTP in any eligible school in England that is prepared to employ an unqualified teacher for the duration of the programme. Independent schools can also be involved, but these applications have to be self-funded.
The GTP is currently not available in Pupil Referral Units.
GTP providers do not operate in the same way in Wales. Applications for employment-based teacher training programmes in Wales are made to the Welsh Assembly Government.
See the Teacher Training & Education in Wales website for more information about applying in Wales.
The GTP outside England and Wales
The GTP gives you QTS and some providers may also offer you a postgraduate certificate in education (PGCE) on completion. Graduates may find that QTS obtained without a PGCE is not as widely accepted in other countries. To find out whether your chosen provider offers PGCE as well as QTS on the GTP, please contact them directly.