Learn to Teach

Teaching is a fulfilling profession that plays a vital role in shaping young minds. In the UK, there are several routes into teaching, allowing individuals to enter the profession through both academic and vocational pathways.

Whether you're aiming to teach in a primary setting (typically ages 5–11) or a secondary setting (ages 11–16 or up to 18), your journey can start right after your GCSEs. The path you choose will depend on your interests, qualifications, and whether you prefer a university-based route or learning on the job.

Academic Route: GCSEs ➜ A-Levels ➜ Undergraduate Degree + Teacher Training

GCSEs: You must have at least Grade 4 (C) or above in English, Maths, and for primary teaching, Science.

A-Levels or Equivalent

Choose A-levels or equivalent qualifications (e.g., BTEC Level 3).
Select subjects that support your intended teaching subject (e.g., Maths A-level for aspiring Maths teachers).

Undergraduate Degree

For primary teaching, you can study a BA/BEd in Primary Education with QTS (Qualified Teacher Status).
For secondary teaching, you can study a subject specific degree (e.g., English, Biology) and then complete teacher training.

Postgraduate Teacher Training (if needed)

After a degree, many students take a PGCE (Postgraduate Certificate in Education) or complete School-Centred Initial Teacher Training (SCITT).

Learn more here:- Get into Teaching – GOV.UK

Vocational Route: GCSEs ➜ College (BTEC/NVQ) ➜ Degree or Apprenticeship

If you're more practical or hands-on, vocational qualifications like BTEC Level 3 in Education, Childcare, or a specific subject area (e.g., Sport Science) can lead to:

A teaching-related undergraduate degree (e.g., Childhood and Youth Studies)
Or entry into teaching apprenticeships

Teaching Apprenticeship: Earn While You Learn

After completing A-levels or a Level 3 qualification, you can apply for the Postgraduate Teaching Apprenticeship. This is a paid, school-based training route leading to QTS, ideal for those who want to earn while they train.

Apprenticeships are available for both primary and secondary levels.
You'll gain practical experience in a school while studying with a university or training provider.

Learn more: Teaching Apprenticeship – UCAS

Degree Apprenticeship (Coming Soon – Pilot Schemes Running)

The Undergraduate Teaching Degree Apprenticeship is a newer route being piloted in some areas. It allows school leavers to train as a teacher over four years, gaining a degree and QTS without student debt.

Alternative Routes: Teach First, School Direct, and More

For graduates or career changers, routes like Teach First (a leadership-focused graduate programme) and School Direct (school-based training) are popular ways into the profession—especially for high-demand subjects like Maths, Physics, and Chemistry.