Entry Requirements

We are looking for trainees with the potential to become a great teacher, who can demonstrate an enthusiasm for working with children and young people.

Entry requirements to train to teach 3-7 and 5-11

• An undergraduate degree or equivalent.
• Grade 4 (C) or above in English, maths and science, or equivalent qualification.
• We consider candidates with pending GCSEs.
• We consider candidates who need to take a GCSE equivalency test in English, maths or science.

Entry requirements to train to teach 11-16 

• An undergraduate degree or equivalent.
• Grade 4 (C) or above in English and maths, or equivalent qualification.
• We consider candidates with pending GCSEs.

GCSE equivalencies

GCSE Equivalency Tests are intended for applicants who cannot evidence they have achieved a standard equivalent to grade C / 4 or above in the GCSE Maths, English and Science examinations. The equivalency exam result is used as an alternative to completing a GCSE for the purpose of meeting the entry requirements of post graduate courses including teacher training and nursing programmes. It is not a GCSE qualification. For more information, please contact info@exchangepartnership.org.uk.

Overseas qualifications

If you studied outside the UK, check the UK ENIC, operated and managed by Ecctis Limited website to find out whether your qualifications are of an equivalent level to UK GCSEs, A-levels, and an undergraduate degree. If you have non-UK qualifications, you will need a Statement of Comparability. This can take some time, so we would advise you to start the process before you submit your application for initial teacher training.

Subject Knowledge Enhancements

If your degree subject doesn't link closely to your chosen teaching subject, you may still be able to apply for a postgraduate teacher training programme by undertaking a subject knowledge enhancement (SKE) course. We may ask you to take an SKE course as a condition of your offer if we feel you have the right qualities to become a teacher but need more subject knowledge first. The Exchange Partnership offers SKE courses in English, Maths, Physics, Biology and Chemistry across 8-28 weeks. We can also support you to find an SKE in other secondary subjects delivered by other companies.

Find out more about The Exchange SKE Programme

To find out more about other SKE courses, visit Get Into Teaching.

Apply now for teacher training