Instead of completing a traditional full-time university degree before teacher training, this route combines employment, academic study and classroom experience into one structured programme.

This route is designed for aspiring primary teachers who want a practical, financially accessible pathway into the profession

This route is designed for aspiring primary teachers who want to learn on the job rather than follow a traditional full-time university pathway.

These programmes are delivered by schools, academy trusts, and universities working in partnership, rather than by private companies in the traditional sense.

If you’re considering this pathway, understanding the entry requirements is an important first step.

This extended timeframe allows you to develop your teaching skills gradually while gaining real experience in a school setting.

Understanding the differences between these options can help you choose the right path for your long-term career in education.

What matters most is your willingness to learn, your interest in supporting children, and your ability to develop the skills needed in a classroom setting.

For school leavers, career changers, or those returning to work, the teaching assistant role offers an accessible route into education without the need for university study.

Below, we dive into the typical training timescales and what you can expect from each pathway.

If you’re considering becoming a TA, here’s what a typical day in the role might look like.

Flexible courses and on-the-job training options make it possible to gain the qualifications and experience you need without giving up your current role.

Here’s what you need to know about how to get started.

The good news is that once you hold Qualified Teacher Status (QTS), it does not expire. This means you remain a qualified teacher, even after a long break. However, there are practical steps to take before returning.

A common question for aspiring and returning teachers is whether QTS has an expiry date. The short answer is no: QTS does not expire once awarded.

However, some teaching roles are available without QTS. These positions are more limited, and career progression can be restricted without gaining formal accreditation. Understanding the difference can help aspiring teachers decide on the right training pathway.

SCITT combines immersive school placements with academic study, ensuring that trainees build subject knowledge, classroom management skills, and confidence while working alongside experienced teachers. Most SCITT programmes also award Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) upon completion, with the option to gain a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) too.

On average, ITT takes between one and four years to complete, with most postgraduate routes lasting just one academic year.

ITE is more than just a stepping stone to Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) – it’s the foundation of a teaching career. Through a blend of academic study and practical school placements, it equips you to inspire pupils, manage classrooms, and create inclusive learning environments.

The short answer is no. To start a PGCE, you must already hold an undergraduate degree (or an equivalent qualification). However, there are other routes into teaching if you don’t yet have a degree.

There are alternative pathways that allow you to qualify and start teaching without completing a PGCE, making the profession more accessible to people from diverse backgrounds and life stages.

A PGCE blends academic study with practical, school-based training, giving you both the theoretical understanding and hands-on experience to excel in the classroom. It’s a respected pathway into the profession – and a stepping stone to gaining Qualified Teacher Status (QTS).

Whether you’re a recent graduate, career changer, or teaching assistant ready to take the next step, the path to QTS is achievable with the right guidance, training, and support.