To study on an initial teacher training course (i.e. a PGCE or a BA Hons with QTS), you need to meet entry requirements determined by the government, including GCSE minimum grade C or equivalent in mathematics, English language and science (for primary courses 7-14). You must also be able to read effectively and communicate clearly in spoken and written standard English.
For entry into the two-year BA courses, A-level-equivalent qualifications are not sufficient. You need either an HND or Foundation Degree equivalent qualification or a minimum of 120 credits in a relevant area of study at higher education level.
The selection procedures for all initial teacher training courses include an interview.
Before starting an initial teacher education course you will need to:
- complete a medical questionnaire
- provide a satisfactory Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) Enhanced Disclosure document
- successfully complete the Professional Skills tests.
Advice about the Professional Skills tests
The Department for Education has introduced Professional Skills Tests in English and Maths for all applicants to teacher training (QTS) routes. These tests are compulsory, and it will not be possible to enter training without having successfully completed them. Candidates are able to book these tests in advance, and the Department for Education strongly advises you to take the tests soon after you have submitted an application.
Undergraduate applicants
The University of Brighton recognises that these tests may present a real challenge to some candidates and we recommend that you prepare carefully before attempting them, as you are limited to only three attempts per test. For this reason we will not insist that undergraduate applicants have passed the tests before they come to an interview and although having already passed the tests may give you a clear advantage, we will be prepared to consider your capacity to pass and potentially make you an offer of a place subject to their successful completion. When we make such an offer you will be given a clear deadline, usually within 2 to 3 months of your interview, so we advise that you plan ahead and book your tests well in advance so that you can organise your preparation.
Postgraduate applicants
The University of Brighton recognises that these tests may present a real challenge to some candidates and we recommend that you prepare carefully before attempting them, as you are limited to only three attempts per test. We recommend that postgraduate applicants have passed the tests before they come to an interview as this will give you a clear advantage. However, if you have not yet passed the tests but have a clear strategy in place, we may well be prepared to consider your capacity to pass and potentially make you an offer of a place subject to their successful completion. When we make such an offer you will be given a clear deadline, usually within 2 months of your interview, so we advise that you plan ahead and book your tests well in advance so that you can organise your preparation.
Find out further details about the tests, including how to register and prepare.
Initial teacher education courses are regularly reviewed and often revised in response to new government requirements. For the latest information please visit the website.