FAQs

All trainees complete a Level 4 NCFE Customised Qualification during Phase One. Options include:

• Level 4 Award in Teaching Fundamentals – an introduction to professional values, safeguarding, and classroom conduct.
• Level 4 Award in Applied Teaching Techniques – focuses on planning, assessment, behaviour, and inclusion for those delivering learning.
• Level 4 Award in Advanced Pre-ITT Practice – prepares trainees for PGCE, Apprenticeship, or Assessment Only routes with deeper emphasis on pedagogy and reflection.

These qualifications are stackable, recognised achievements in their own right, and prepare you for Phase Two where you can gain QTS (and often a PGCE with Master’s credits).

Yes. For PGCE and Apprenticeship routes, you’ll need a UK bachelor’s degree (or international equivalent). For subject-specific roles in secondary schools, your degree should be in the subject you plan to teach, or closely related.

What support will I receive?

You’ll have:

• A school-based mentor meeting you weekly.
• Tripartite reviews each term with your mentor and Grad2Teach coordinator.
• Regular study groups linked to the Teachers’ Standards.
• Access to wellbeing coaching and an Employee Assistance Programme.
• A Partnership Coordinator to oversee your progress and liaise with your school.

Phase One is salaried, school-embedded, and built around NCFE-accredited qualifications. You’ll be developing practical teaching skills while contributing to your school—without leaving for lectures. Formal ITT begins only when you and your school are ready.

In Phase Two you’ll enter a recognised ITT pathway:

• PGCE with QTS (via Coventry University NITE) – university-led, academic, with 60 Master’s credits.
• Postgraduate Teaching Apprenticeship (PGTA) – levy-funded, with off-the-job training.
• Assessment-Only (Not Only Assessment model) – for experienced practitioners who need structured support before assessment.

All routes lead to QTS, with Grad2Teach continuing to support your training and progression.

No. Your salary is paid by Grad2Teach, and schools cover a facilitation fee. In many cases—especially if you are referred directly by a school—there are no extra costs beyond your salary. For PGCE routes, schools sometimes sponsor fees; otherwise, Student Finance may be available.

Yes. For QTS you’ll need experience in at least two schools. Grad2Teach will arrange your contrasting placement (typically 3–4 weeks) during Phase Two.

Your NCFE qualification is still a valuable milestone. It recognises your skills and impact in school and supports progression into other roles such as Higher Level Teaching Assistant, Cover Supervisor, or later ITT entry.

• Phase One (NCFE Qualification): usually one academic year, but flexible depending on readiness.
• Phase Two (PGCE, Apprenticeship, or AOR): typically one further year.

Some trainees achieve QTS in as little as 18 months; others take longer depending on route and school needs.

While no training provider can guarantee employment, most Grad2Teach trainees are retained by their school post-qualification. Our model is designed around “recruit, train, retain”, and many schools hire their trainee as an Early Career Teacher (ECT) immediately after training