School-centred initial teacher training

School-Centred initial teacher training ( SCITT) courses are postgraduate initial teacher training ( ITT) programmes designed and delivered by groups of neighbouring schools and colleges. They allow graduates to complete almost all of their training in a school environment.

Taught by experienced, practising teachers, and often tailored towards local teaching needs, all SCITT courses lead to qualified teacher status (QTS). Many, though not all, will also award you the Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) validated by a higher education institution.

SCITT is a good option for individuals who would prefer to spend more of their training time in the classroom, putting theory into practice and developing confidence through more contact with pupils and other members of staff.

How long does SCITT take?

Courses generally last for one year full-time.

These courses are one academic year running from September to June. Some start earlier; The National SCITT in Outstanding Primary Schools starts in August.

Where can you do SCITT?

There are consortia of schools and colleges running SCITT courses all over England. These groups provide all kinds of SCITT, covering primary, middle years and the full range of secondary subjects. There are currently no SCITTs running solely within Wales. However, some consortia run on the English/Welsh border and may use Welsh schools as part of their programmes. You will usually be based in one school from the consortium, the 'lead school', while completing teaching practices at others within the group.

What qualifications do you need?

You must have a UK undergraduate degree or a recognised equivalent qualification. Your degree should relate to the subject you want to teach (if primary, that means the core subjects of the national curriculum), if it doesn't, you might be able to complete a pre-training course to get your knowledge up to the required level.

You must also have achieved a standard equivalent to at least a grade C GCSE English language and mathematics. And if you were born on or after 1 September 1979 and want to teach primary or Key Stage 2/3 (ages 7-14), you need to have achieved a standard equivalent to a grade C in a GCSE science subject.

Is there any additional funding available?

Eligible trainees completing SCITT courses in England are entitled to receive a tax-free training bursary of up to £20,000 or scholarships up to £25,000. Bursary & scholarship amounts will vary depending on teacher training subject and degree class or highest relevant academic qualification.

How do you apply?

Applications for SCITT are made via a system administered by the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS).

If you are ready to make your application, you can do so through UCAS Teacher Training , the new teacher training portal through which you can apply for all postgraduate ITT, including university-led and school-led routes

When should you apply?

You need to apply via UCAS teacher training; applications to UCAS Teacher Training will be open at the end of October.

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