The Graduate Teacher Programme (GTP) is an on-the-job training programme that allows graduates to qualify as a teacher while they work. On the GTP graduates are employed by a school, earn a salary and work towards qualified teacher status. It's a good choice if you want to change to a teaching career but need to continue earning while you train.

The trainee is a supernumerary employee of a sponsoring school. They work closely with timetabled colleagues steadily increasing their responsibility for teaching classes on their route to Qualified Teacher Status (QTS). In addition to the sponsoring school, trainees will also complete a one-term placement in a contrasting school.

How long does the GTP programme take?

Usually ten months, from September 1st to June 30th.

Course outline

The course is an intensive programme of initial teacher education which aims to develop trainees' competence and confidence in the teaching of their chosen subject(s) and in the general professional role of the teacher.

The intention is to provide trainees with a set of insights, perspectives and information upon which they can build as their career develops and to present a stimulating, challenging and enjoyable course.

Throughout the year there is a focus upon subject knowledge and the context of education. The trainees maintain a professional portfolio showing achievement in relation to the Professional Standards for QTS.

On this course trainees will develop the following:

• a broad range of practical teaching skills
• appropriate personal qualities and professional attitudes
• an informed understanding of curriculum and teaching methodology
• the capacity to reflect critically on professional practice
• a cogent personal philosophy of education

How to apply:All applications are now dealt with through a centralised process using the TDA website.

You must ensure that you fulfill the minimum entry requirements to embark on Initial Teacher Training. Click this link to see the minimum requirements.

Please note: To accompany your application you will need to submit an Initial School Experience form. This should be completed and sent with your application but at the very latest sent to the Course Administrator before the February deadline if your application is to be considered for the first round.

The Initial School Experience form and the guidelines for completing it can be obtained by clicking on the links at the bottom of this page.