Train to Teach

Advantage Schools is a lead partner for ITE (Initial Teacher Education) with the University of Bedfordshire.  We offer courses for postgraduates to train to teach at both primary and secondary level, with placement opportunities in good and outstanding schools in our trust, based across Bedfordshire and Luton. 

Advantage Schools has a wealth of experience in developing new teachers; from working with the Department for Education to influence policy, to working on an individual level to support those new to our profession.    

Training with us, you will have access to an experienced and dedicated teaching mentor who will support you to learn evidence informed teaching strategies, using evidence informed methods; building your knowledge and skillset incrementally, so you can flourish.  You will be based in schools which align with the Advantage Schools approach to education, which you can read more about here.

During your placements you will be in school Monday – Thursday and spend Fridays at the University of Bedfordshire (Bedford campus) following the PGCE curriculum for your phase/subject.

The courses offered provide trainees with the knowledge and competence to be successful Early Career Teachers, with qualified teacher status (QTS), the award of a postgraduate certificate in education (PGCE) and 60 Master’s-level credits.  Courses last one year full-time and two years part-time. 

We welcome applications from well qualified graduates who have:

  • A passion for their subject and a desire to teach
  • A belief that all children, given the right circumstances, are capable of extraordinary things.
  • Resilience and enthusiasm

To qualify for a place applicants must:

  • Have a minimum of a 2:2 Honours degree (or a UK ENIC verified equivalent) by the beginning of your course
  • Have GCSE grade 4 or above (or equivalent) in English, Mathematics and Science (science for primary only)
  • Pass our suitability to teach assessments (DBS/prohibition checks).
  • Satisfactory occupational health checks.

There is a tuition fee of £9,250.  Student finance loans can be obtained to cover tuition and maintenance.  Secondary subjects may also be entitled to a DFE bursary (check here).

For an informal chat or to arrange a visit to one of our schools call Jay Powell, Recruitment Officer.

Tel:01582 211226