The Registered Teacher Programme (RTP) provides a blend of work-based teacher training and academic study, allowing non-graduates with some experience of higher education to complete their degree and qualify as a teacher at the same time.
On the RTP you will be employed by a school, earn a salary, complete your degree and work towards qualified teacher status (QTS) all at the same time. The RTP is a good choice for people with some experience of higher education, but without a degree, who want to change to a teaching career but need to continue earning while they train.
Once on the programme, your training will be tailored to your needs and lead to qualified teacher status (QTS). Your training provider will also work with a local higher education institution to ensure you receive suitable training to extend your subject knowledge to degree level.
Where can you do the RTP?
You can complete the RTP in any English school, as long as they are prepared to employ you as an unqualified teacher for the duration of the programme. Independent schools can be involved in the RTP, but these applications would have to be self-funded. Pupil referral units cannot employ RTP trainees or have any involvement with the training. In Wales, the Minister for Education, Lifelong Learning and Skills has announced that RTP will not be offered to new entrants from 2007 onwards.
How long does the RTP take?
The programme normally takes two years. However, if you already have some teaching experience, it may take less time.
Is there any financial support available?
Your school will pay you an unqualified or qualified teacher’s salary (starting from £15,817 depending on your responsibilities, experience and location). The TDA may also provide the school with a grant of up to £9,100 (for two years' full time) to cover the cost of your training.
If the school doesn't receive this funding, there is also a self-funded option available, by which the school will meet the costs of the RTP. To find out whether this option is available to you, you will need to enquire at your local RTP provider (known as employment-based initial teacher training (EBITT) provider). Find out more about funding for employment-based initial teacher training.
What qualifications do you need?
You must have completed the equivalent of two years of higher education. This is the equivalent of 240 Credit and Accumulation and Transfer Scheme (CATS) points. For example, you may have completed an HND, a DipHE, or the first two years of a bachelors degree. The recognition of 240 CATS points is at the discretion of the RTP provider. In addition to 240 CATS points, you will also need to demonstrate that you meet a standard equivalent to GCSE grade C in mathematics and English.
If you intend to teach primary or key stage 2/3 (ages 7–14), you must also have a qualification equivalent to a grade C in a science GCSE.
How do you apply?
To take part, you need to be working in a school as an unqualified teacher. Your first step is to find a school willing to employ you and support you through the programme. You then need to apply directly to your local EBITT provider. They will assess your application and establish what further training you would need to meet the standards for QTS.
Some EBITT providers can help you find a post in a school – otherwise you can look for vacancies in the local and national press, as well as on local authority and recruitment websites.
When should you apply?
You can apply to join the RTP at any time. Keep in mind, however, that it is a challenging programme, requiring substantial effort and commitment. The RTP is not as widely available as the Graduate Teacher Programme (GTP), and competition for places is high. You need to be sure that this programme is for you before you apply.