FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS – APPLICATIONS

How do I apply?

By contacting Kathy Stokell for an application form on kathrynstokell@wirral.gov.uk

Can I apply on-line?

No.

As applications require an original signature, and copies of documentation must be included, only postal applications can be accepted.

Can I submit my application electronically?

No.

As applications require an original signature, and copies of documentation must be included, only postal applications can be accepted.

However, an electronic version of the application can be requested from kathrynstokell@wirral.gov.uk.This can be word processed, printed off, signed and posted.

Do I need a school before I can apply?

No. Having school support is not part of the selection process.

However, having school support can be an advantage. You can demonstrate current experience and you have someone to show your application form to before submission, so that any weak areas can be addressed.

If I don't have a school, how can I find one?

Firstly, approach your local schools. They may be able to provide guidance on developing your experience and provide an insight into your future career.

The Consortium does not produce a list of schools involved in the programme as this changes on a regular basis, but may provide contact details of a couple of local schools.

Is there a lower age limit?

No.

There used to be a minimum age limit of 24, but this was removed by the European Commission.

How much experience do I need to apply for the programme?

The Consortium requires a minimum of 6 months quality classroom experience.

It is difficult to be definitive on the amount of time required as the Selection Panel will look for good quality experience in a classroom, working with the Key Stages, age and ability range that you intend to teach. They will also look for knowledge of the whole-school environment.

I work full-time. How am I supposed to gather 6 months experience?

Speak to your local schools / Headteachers. They will be able to guide you on how you can assist the school and thereby develop your experience.

Why do I need so much experience?

The requirement for experience is local. GTP Partnerships in other areas of the country may not require as much.

Within the North West there are more people wishing to enter teaching than there are places, so we can impose our own criteria to restrict applications.

From our experience, we have found that trainees need to be fully aware of the school environment before entering training.

Rather than a restricting requirement, view it as an opportunity to explore the teaching profession before committing yourself to a twelve-months training programme.

How can I check if my qualifications are valid?

If your qualifications were not obtained in the UK , then you need to approach UK Naric for a statement of equivalency. (www.naric.org.uk)

All applicants must satisfy the basic criteria for qualifications:

• GCSE English, Grade C or better or equivalent
• GCSE Mathematics, Grade C or better or equivalent
• GCSE Science, Grade C or better or eqivalent
• Honours Degree

Without these basic qualifications, you are unable to join the programme.

See the application guidance for further details.

I have an Ordinary Degree. Does this mean that I cannot apply?

Not necessarily.

We have a requirement of a 2:2 honours degree, although we will allow a lower degree classification if it is supported with substantial, quality experience.

It is true that I can only apply once?

No.

Some applicants become confused by the requirements of QTS and the requirements of application.

You can apply as many times and to as many programmes as you feel appropriate.

It is only if you have previously failed a QTS programme that you are unlikely to be accepted onto another QTS programme.

Can I apply to other partnerships / PGCE programmes?

Yes.

You are encouraged to maximise your chances of gaining a place within teacher training.

However, once you have gained and accepted a place, you should notify other providers to remove you from their list of applicants, their list of successful candidates or from their contact database.

How many starting dates do you have on the programme?

That depends on the quality of applicants and funding from the TDA.

For general guidance, all Primary and Secondary Other places are filled during the main recruitment period for a September start.

We occasionally have a couple of Salary Grant places remaining for Secondary Shortage subjects. These may be subject to a late summer application round for a September start, or may be delayed for a January or even Easter start.

We may also have Training Grant Only places remaining for Secondary Shortage subjects.

The best way of finding out the current vacancy situation or closing date is to request an application pack.