Teacher Training FAQs
Primary Teaching
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Primary Teaching
Teacher Training FAQs
Apply for teacher training
How do I apply?
In England, you should register and apply through the Department for Education's teaching training portal.
If you're looking for programmes in Wales and Scotland, you'll need to use UCAS' search tool, or for Northern Ireland, use UCAS' guide for training in NI.
Can I apply while finishing my degree?
Yes. You can apply in your final year.
If successful, your offer will be conditional on completing your degree with at least a 2:2 Honours.
What should I include in my personal statement?
Show that you are suitable for teaching and postgraduate study.
Focus on:
- Your motivation to teach
- Relevant experience
- Your understanding of the role
- Read guidance on the UCAS Teacher Training website before applying.
Entry requirements
What qualifications do I need?
You will need:
- A degree (minimum 2:2 Honours)
- GCSEs in English and mathematics
For primary teacher training, you also need a GCSE in a science subject.
What degree do I need for secondary teaching?
Your degree should match your subject specialism.
At least 50 per cent of your degree should be in that subject.
What if my degree is not related to my subject?
You can apply for a Subject Knowledge Enhancement (SKE) course.
UEL offers SKE courses in:
- Computing
- Geography
- Mathematics
- Physics
- Chemistry
- Biology
- Spanish
What if my qualifications are not from the UK?
Contact UK ENIC (formerly NARIC) for a statement of comparability.
This confirms whether your qualifications meet PGCE (Postgraduate Certificate in Education) entry requirements.
School Direct
What is School Direct?
School Direct is a school-led teacher training route. You train mainly in a school while working towards Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) and a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE).
How is School Direct different from the university-led route?
You are based primarily in a partner school rather than at the university. You will:
- Train in a school setting from the start
- Work closely with experienced teachers
- Receive academic support from UEL
Both routes lead to QTS and a PGCE.
How do I apply for School Direct?
In England, you should register and apply through the Department for Education's teaching training portal.
If you're looking for programmes in Wales and Scotland, you'll need to use UCAS' search tool, or for Northern Ireland, use UCAS' guide for training in NI.
If you have any further queries, please email: teacheradmiss@uel.ac.uk.
Will I be paid on a School Direct course?
Some School Direct places are salaried, but most are tuition fee-based. Availability depends on the school and subject.
Where will I train?
You will train in one of our partner schools. Placement details will be confirmed as part of your offer.
Experience and preparation
Do I need classroom experience?
Classroom experience is not required, but you should spend at least five days observing in a UK school or early years setting.
Interviews and offers
What does the interview involve?
The interview lasts around three hours and may include:
- A discussion on a current education issue
- A short activity or task
- A one-to-one interview with a tutor
You should prepare by reading about current education topics (for example, the Times Educational Supplement).
When will I receive a decision?
We update your UCAS status within 48 working hours of your interview.
Your offer may include conditions.
Course structure and study
Can I study the PGCE part time?
No. The PGCE is a one-year full-time course.
What support will I receive?
You will have access to:
- Academic tutors
- Health and wellbeing services
- Library services
- Childcare and disability support
Support is available at our Docklands and Stratford campuses.
Fees and funding
Are bursaries available?
You may be eligible for a tax-free government bursary of up to £25,000, depending on your subject.
Payments are made in ten monthly instalments from October.
Find full details on the Get Into Teaching website.
After you receive an offer
How do I enrol?
How do I enrol? We will email you with instructions to enrol through UEL Direct.
You must complete enrolment as soon as possible using your login details.
What to do next
- Browse our courses
- Check your eligibility before applying
- Contact us if you need advice on qualifications or experience