Entry Requirements
The SCITT course is for graduates who wish to achieve Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) and a Post Graduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) in one year. Although applications for the DTTP are received from all over the UK and beyond, the majority come from local graduates who are contemplating a career review and change in direction.
The minimum entry requirements are:
- A good honours degree (normally 2.2 or above) of a UK University, higher education institution or an acceptable recognised equivalent.
- A GCSE (or equivalent) at grade C or above in English, mathematics and a science subject.
Candidates who are due to complete their studies before the course date will also be considered.
At each stage of the selection process several criteria are applied. Successful candidates will:
- communicate clearly in written and spoken English
- provide evidence of recent experience with children in the 5-11 age range within a school setting
- convey enthusiasm and commitment to teaching in the primary age range
- articulate appropriate reasons for wanting to teach in the primary age range
- form effective relationships with adults and children
- be able to inspire and enthuse adults and children
- demonstrate the ability to reflect upon and analyse classroom experience
- demonstrate secure maths skills
- provide appropriate references confirming their suitability for teaching
- demonstrate that they have no criminal convictions which might prevent them from working with children or young people, or as a teacher
- demonstrate that they are physically and mentally fit to teach
Interviews are held in Partnership schools over two days. Candidates are given opportunities to:
- observe and assist classroom teachers
- read a story to a class or group of children
- undertake English and maths exercises
- take part in a formal interview
Candidates who are successful at interview will also be required to:
- complete a one week (minimum) pre-course placement in a school setting
In 2006, Ofsted identified our selection procedures as ‘a strong feature of the course. The high quality of the trainees selected at interview reflects the thoroughness and rigour of the selection process’.
