What qualifications do you need to become a teacher in England?

Essential requirements

To teach in most state schools in England, you’ll need to gain Qualified Teacher Status (QTS). This accreditation confirms that you have the subject knowledge, skills, and professional standards required to lead a classroom.

To begin training for QTS, you’ll usually need:

• A degree: You must hold an undergraduate degree or equivalent. If you don’t yet have one, you can complete an undergraduate course that awards both a degree and QTS.

• GCSEs in English and maths (grade 4/C or above): These are compulsory for all teaching routes.

• GCSE science (grade 4/C or above): Required if you want to teach in primary schools.
   

These academic requirements ensure that trainee teachers have the foundation needed to succeed in their training and future career.

Training routes into teaching

Once you meet the entry requirements, you can train to teach through a number of recognised pathways:

• Undergraduate degree with QTS: A three to four-year course combining subject knowledge and teacher training.

• Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE): A one-year full-time or two-year part-time postgraduate qualification.

• School-Centred Initial Teacher Training (SCITT): A school-led programme, placing you in classrooms from day one while you work towards QTS.

• Assessment Only (AO) route: Designed for experienced unqualified teachers who can demonstrate competence without additional training.
   

Additional skills and checks

Alongside academic qualifications, future teachers need:

• Safeguarding and background checks: All trainee teachers must undergo an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check.

• Professional skills: Strong communication, organisation, and the ability to inspire young learners.

• Commitment to CPD: A willingness to engage in continued professional development throughout your career.
   

Catalyst Academies Teacher Apprenticeship

At Catalyst Academies Trust, we support aspiring teachers across Essex in gaining the qualifications and experience they need to start a successful teaching career.

Our apprenticeship programme, delivered in partnership with Chelmsford College, provides a flexible, school-based route into education. Apprentices spend four days per week in school and one day in college, with all training delivered on-site at Dilkes Academy, so there’s no need to travel to Chelmsford.

The apprenticeship is open to anyone aged 16 and over, provided they have achieved Grade 4 or above in GCSE English and maths. Through a blend of classroom experience, academic learning, and personalised mentoring, trainees gain the practical skills and confidence to progress within the education sector—whether as teaching assistants or future teachers.

Interviews are held over the phone with the Chelmsford College Lead. Successful applicants at this stage will be invited to a Catalyst Academies Trust school of their choosing to read an age-appropriate book to a small group of pupils, followed by an interview.

Benefits of working with Catalyst Academies Trust

• Two-week half-term in October and May

• Reward gateway scheme with excellent discounts in many shops

• Loyalty payments for excellent attendance

• Fantastic support in career progression

• Support from a dedicated ITE Manager 

Taking the next step

To become a teacher in England, you’ll need a degree, GCSE passes in key subjects, and a pathway to gain QTS. With the right support and training, you can begin a rewarding career that makes a lasting difference to pupils’ lives.

If you’re ready to start your journey, explore our teaching assistant courses in Essex and see how Catalyst Academies Trust can guide you into teaching.