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Train to Teach
PGCE Placement Opportunities with Advantage Schools
Advantage Schools is a lead partner for ITE (Initial Teacher Education) with the University of Bedfordshire. We offer training placements 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.
With Advantage Schools, 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.
To apply
Apply here:
Find teacher training courses - GOV.UK
Courses we are currently offering (with course codes):
Secondary Biology (D545)
Secondary Chemistry (M583)
Secondary Computing (H556)
Secondary Drama (B837)
Secondary English (D646)
Secondary History (K950)
Secondary Mathematics (E349)
Secondary Physical Education (Q779)
Secondary Physics (U295)
If you would like to train to be a teacher through one of our Schools, whilst gaining your PGCE QTS qualification through the University of Bedfordshire or any other University, email us now with your details for one of your PGCE placements.
“The knowledge-rich curriculum approach at BFS has really deepened and challenged my subject knowledge, and this has been well complemented by an amazing mentor and regular check-ins and CPD just for trainees.”
PGCE Student
“My mentor has been amazing throughout my teacher training and has helped me to improve so much in one year. I thoroughly enjoyed my teacher training at Bedford Free School and felt supported by all staff, as soon as I arrived, everyone said to ask them if I needed any help and have offered lots of support and advice throughout the year.”
ITT Student
“I have thoroughly enjoyed training at Houstone School. My mentors and the staff in general, have been incredibly supportive and made me feel a part of the team from the onset. The curriculum that I am fortunate enough to teach is exciting, fresh and extremely relevant in today's world. The teaching methods, standards and strategies are to the highest standard, ensuring the students in front of us gain the best education possible. It's been an incredible journey and I am so excited as I progress forward in my career.”
ITT Student and Early Career Teacher
“My teacher training at Elstow has been incredibly supportive and well-structured. Teach Like a Champion strategies helped me feel confident with my classroom management, which allowed me to focus on developing my pedagogical knowledge. Regular check-ins with my mentor, targeted weekly goals, and deliberate practice all gave me clear direction and helped me make tangible progress. Working alongside a staff community rich in expertise and encouragement has made me feel supported and motivated throughout my training!”
ITT Student and Early Career Teacher
“It has been an enjoyable and insightful experience completing my ECT years through Advantage Schools following the Ambition Institute Programme. The regular check ins and support from my mentor have enabled me to practice teaching elements before implementing them with my own class. My confidence has grown through this programme, and I now feel ready and able to continue developing my teaching practice.”
PGCE Student and Early Career Teacher