Frequently Asked Questions
We understand that you will likely have questions about the course, about us and about how to apply.
After all, taking the first steps on your career path to becoming a teacher can be daunting. Below we have answered some of the most frequently asked questions, however if you would like to speak to one of our team in person please feel free to drop us a line any time, we are always happy to help.
What qualifications do I need to apply?
A UK Bachelor degree qualification or a recognised equivalent qualification.
3 GCSE grades A-C (Grade 4 or above) in English Language, Mathematics and Science (or equivalent).
International qualifications
Applicants with international qualifications must provide a Statement of Comparability obtained from the National Academic Recognition Information Centre (NARIC), at www.naric.org.uk/naric
What experience do I need to apply?
School experience is not essential in order to apply for one of our courses. However, you may find it beneficial to have some school experience for the interview process where you will be asked to deliver a ‘mini-teach’ – a short lesson to a small group of pupils. You may also be asked questions which relate to the classroom.
Information about the School Experience Programme can be found on the Get into Teaching website at https://getintoteaching.education.gov.uk/school-experience
What is the selection process?
Once applications are received through UCAS, they undergo a careful screening process to ascertain suitability for interview.
Consideration is given to academic qualifications (or predictions for pending degrees); suitability to teach & personal qualities and the quality of the personal statement in terms of grammar and spelling. Those selected will be invited to attend an interview day. Where applicants cannot make the specified date, an alternative date can be arranged subject to available places.
What pre placement checks will be carried out?
Prestolee SCITT is committed to safeguarding and an Enhanced DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check, Barred List check and Prohibition check will be carried out on all successful applicants before commencing the course. You will be required to provide photographic ID to verify your identity. A Health Screening check will also be carried out to confirm Fitness to Teach. In line with safer recruitment we will request to see original certificates (not copies) for any necessary qualifications and will routinely check with education providers to verify authenticity. You can order duplicate certificates from the exam board if needed.
What do we look for in a trainee?
Put simply, we are looking for potential. More specifically, we are looking for candidates who have the qualities required for a career in teaching, the potential to turn these qualities into a journey towards becoming a great teacher, and the work ethic and determination required to make this a reality.
We want to hear from people who are personable, friendly and engaging; have a strong work ethic and a positive outlook; who understand the importance of teaching and want to make a difference.
We welcome applications from both career changers with valuable work experience, through to those who are in their final year of their first degree. We also seek to accept applications from groups under-represented in teaching: ethnic minority trainees, students with disabilities and male teachers.
What can I do if I don’t have the required GCSE grades?
Where candidates do not have the required GCSE grades or equivalent for their chosen pathway, they must complete an equivalency test. These can be completed at various institutions, including Prestolee SCITT. For more information on our equivalency testing programme please see prestoleescitt.co.uk/equivalency-testing. Where applicants are completing equivalency tests, a condition of offer will be the successful completion to the minimum level prior to commencement on the course.
What are our course fees?
Our course fees for 2021-22 are set at £9,250 per annum for PGCE with QTS and £8,000 for QTS only. Our part-time course is set at £9,500 per 18 months for QTS only.
For more information on our course fees please see prestoleescitt.co.uk/courses.
Trainees have 2 options for payment, either via a loan from Student Finance or via self-funding. If you fund via Student Finance, once your loan application is approved the payments will be made directly to us and you do not need to take any further action. If you self-fund, you will need to adhere to the following payment terms and payments can be made either by BACS or cheque.
For more information on, and to apply for Student Finance, visit their website at https://www.gov.uk/apply-online-for-student-finance
What financial help is available?
Trainee teachers can apply for a Tuition Fee Loan to finance their course fees and a Maintenance Loan to cover living costs. You can apply and find out more about eligibility criteria here https://www.gov.uk/apply-online-for-student-finance. You may be also be entitled to additional financial support if you are a parent, have a disability or an adult dependant. Click here to find out more and to check if you are eligible. You can also use the Student Finance Calculator to estimate the amount of funding you could receive.
For more information on, and to apply for Student Finance, visit their website at https://www.gov.uk/apply-online-for-student-finance