The Graduate Teacher Programme (GTP) is an employment-based teacher training programme that allows trainee teachers to work in a school and simultaneously follow a training programme leading to qualified teacher status (QTS). The school pays the trainee as an unqualified teacher.

Employment-based training suits mature, well-qualified people who can quickly take on teaching responsibilities and who need to earn a living while they train. Many trainees have relevant experience in other sectors or in a support role in a school. Others are career changers who want to move into teaching.

GTP providers will take into account experience and suitability to teach when assessing applications. All applicants must also possess:

A UK degree or equivalent
GCSE Maths, grade A* to C (or recognised equivalent)
GCSE English, grade A* to C (or recognised equivalent)
GCSE Science, grade A* to C (or recognised equivalent) - Primary teaching only

GTP Places

Applications to join the scheme are made via a Designated Recommending Body (DRB).

For a full contact list of DRBs please visit www.tda.gov.uk/gtp.

Further information on the GTP and other employment-based teacher training routes can be found on www.tda.gov.uk/teach

Participating Schools

Leicestershire schools and colleges have a good track record in supporting the GTP and although a central list of participating establishments is not available, we would recommend that you contact your local school/college for a discussion.

Page Last Updated: 4 January 2011