FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS?
We hope the following will be of some help to you. If you have any further questions please do not hesitate to contact us via email or phone
Q. At what time of the year should I apply?
A. The course is very popular the earlier you apply the better. Most applications are received in the Autumn and early Spring term.
Q. When does the course run?
A. From September to July each year.
Q. How do I go about applying for a place on the course?
A. Through the GTTR either on line via their website or by phoning 0870 1122205.
Q. What are the qualifications for entry onto the course?
A. An honours degree lower second or above.
O level / GCSE English Language and Mathematics A-C grades and also O Level / GCSE Science at A-C grade.
Q. What do I do if my degree is not a British degree?
A. Contact NARIC on 0870 9904088 and gain paper verification that it is equivalent to a British degree 2:2 or above.
Q. Do I have to have certain checks made?
A. Yes. Medical, Criminal Records Bureau and your academic qualifications. You will need to produce original certificates to verify these.
Q. Would you expect applicants to have experience in an English primary school before starting the course?
A. Yes. You will need to acquire experience as a volunteer helper or classroom assistant in an English primary school before starting the course. The more you can do the better and the easier you will find the course, a minimum of two weeks is required. This time will also confirm for you that you want to train to teach.
Q. Do I need this experience before the interview?
A. No, but if you have had experience there is a greater likelihood of being able to answer the questions with conviction and therefore gaining a place on the course.
Q. Do you get a PGCE upon successful completion of the course?
A. Successful trainees receive an integrated award of QTS and a PGCE (M) or PGCE (H).
Q. Do I need to take the Skills Tests in Literacy, Numeracy and ICT?
A. Yes, you cannot gain QTS without passing these.
Q. Does the training have to take place in a SCITT Partnership school?
A. Yes.
Q. Do I receive a Training Bursary?
A. Yes. If you are a home or EU student you receive the £4,000 paid in nine installments. This is a Government provided Bursary, please check it is still being given for the year you wish to train in.
Q. What do I have to do to receive the Training Bursary?
A. Nothing, we do that for you.
Q. Are my tuition fees paid?
A. Under the new legislation for variable tuition fees you are now liable to cover the cost of the tuition fee yourself, although you may, apply for a loan or grant via your LEA or the Student Loans Company. Please visit www.dfes.gov.uk/studentsupport for more information.
Q. Can I apply for a student loan?
A. Yes, through your LEA if you are a home student.