Train to Teach with School Direct
Waldegrave Training Alliance (WTA) is a group of local secondary schools led by Waldegrave School. The Alliance offers an outstanding place to work and learn and provides a supportive and tailored learning opportunity in partnership with our partner universities. The Alliance is pleased to be offering School Direct training (unsalaried) courses again for September 2022 in collaboration with Roehampton and St Mary's Universities.
All of the schools in our alliance have experience of teacher training and are already supporting School Direct trainees. To train teachers bring many advantages to a school and we fully embrace the energy, drive and enthusiasm they bring. Our Alliance schools include: Waldegrave School, Orleans Park School, Christ’s School, Hampton High, Twickenham School, Richmond Park Academy, Turing House, The Richmond upon Thames School and St Richard Reynolds Catholic College.
We still have School Direct vacancies in the following subjects for September 2022 start:
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Computing
- Design & Technology
- Drama
- English
- Geography
- Mathematics
- Music
- Physics
Successful completion of the course leads to qualified teacher status (QTS) and a postgraduate certificate in education (PGCE) with Masters credits.
How do I view courses that are available?
To view courses available with Waldegrave Training Alliance please visit Find postgraduate teacher training and search for Waldegrave Training Alliance (1FP).
What qualifications do I need?
The teaching profession looks for the highest quality candidates, so you will need to meet the following requirements before you can be accepted for teacher training.
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Hold and be able to provide certificated evidence of having an undergraduate degree conferred by a UK university or an equivalent qualification. Most successful applicants will have 2:1 degree classification or better, a candidate with a 2:2 degree classification will be considered, if they are able to provide additional evidence of potential, such as the award of a higher degree or substantial relevant professional experience.
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Have achieved at least a grade 4 (C) or above in both Mathematics and English Language GCSEs (or approved equivalents).
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For PE and Science subjects you will also need at least a grade 4 (C) in GCSE Science.
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Teaching is physically and mentally demanding, and there are fitness requirements set by the Department for Education for applicants to initial teacher training programmes. Please see the Roehampton and St Marys University websites for further details.
Subject Knowledge Enhancement
Remember, if your degree isn’t in the subject you wish to teach, you may be eligible for a funded course to increase your subject knowledge before starting your training.
Further requirements
If you studied outside of the UK, you should visit the National Academic Recognition Centre (NARIC) to find out whether your qualifications are of an equivalent level to UK GCSEs, A levels and an undergraduate degree.
References
You will need to provide two references to accompany your UCAS application. Your application cannot be processed without them. We recommend that you start your references early as often this element of the application process is the slowest.
School Observations
We recommend that applicants spend some time observing lessons in a UK secondary school. All observational experience should provide an opportunity to gain insight into teaching, learning and reflection upon the professional responsibilities of teachers.
How do I apply?
To apply for School Direct places you will need to use the Apply for teacher training service.
How do I get advice and support?
You can register with Get Into Teaching, the Department for Education’s free support and advice service.
A specialist adviser will help you prepare your application and advise you on funding options (including loans and tax-free bursaries and scholarships). You can also book school experience and access teaching events.
Further information about bursaries and scholarships can be found here.