What is the difference between a SCITT and a PGCE?

School Centred Initial Teacher Training (SCITT) is a type of teacher training programme with a strong focus on the classroom practice element of the training in order to gain Qualified Teacher Statuts (QTS).

A PGCE is an academic qualification (Postgraduate Certificate in Education). It is our expectation that all trainees undertake the PGCE (with QTS) as part of their course, unless they have enroled on one of our Employment-based pathways to QTS.

Do I need a PGCE to teach?

No. Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) is the qualification required to teach in England and Wales.

How do I make an application?

All applications are made through the Department for Education’s ‘Apply’ service. Recruitment begins in October and continues until places are filled. If you have queries about making an application, please get in touch with us to see if we can help you.

Apply for Teacher Training (GOV.UK)

How do I get school experience?

Although it is not necessary to gain school experience prior to applying to us, you may find it very useful to do so.

Participating in a school experience programme was definitely a turning point for me. If you’re considering teaching, there’s nothing like seeing what the job actually entails to find out if it’s for you. It really is a great opportunity. It also made my application stronger, as I was able to reflect on my school experience, and made me more aware of the qualities and values schools want in potential teachers. (DfE case study)

Getting some classroom experience can help you to decide whether teaching is right for you – it could also strengthen your application.

Visit the Get into Teaching website to read how the DfE can help you with this, or contact us directly.

You can also gain some school experience by contacting Teach Cornwall.