Becoming a teacher in the UK
If you’re considering teaching in a UK state school, you’ll need to have a degree, and a recognised teaching qualification.
Initial Teacher Education or Training (ITET) programmes across the UK are broadly similar, providing a combination of academic study and time in school, as you learn about key teaching methods.
The routes, entry requirements, and statutory teaching standards are different depending on where in the UK you plan to train, and ultimately, teach. You can apply through UCAS for the main postgraduate and undergraduate teacher training programmes in Wales and Scotland. For programmes in England, use the DfE's 'Apply for teacher training' service
Train to teach in England
Find out more about university and school-led routes, ITT programmes including PGCE, School Direct, and SCITT, the professional skills tests, and achieving Qualified Teacher Status (QTS).
Train to teach in Scotland and Wales
Find out more about eligibility for university-led Initial Teacher Education (ITE), including undergraduate programmes and PGDE courses in primary and secondary education.
Train to teach in Northern Ireland
Find out more about how to apply for university-led graduate Initial Teacher Education (ITE) programmes in Northern Ireland.
Choosing a career in teaching
Before you apply, find out more about what a career in teaching could offer you – from salary and progression, to first-hand experiences of what teaching is really like.
Find training programmes
Find the teacher training programme that's right for you.
UCAS Teacher Training blog
Get top tips from current trainees, application advice from ITT tutors, and expert introductions to key issues in education to help you get ready for your training programme.