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A School-Centred Initial Teacher Training (SCITT) programme is a popular, school-based route to achieving Qualified Teacher Status (QTS), the essential qualification for teaching in most English schools. Unlike university-led courses, SCITT programmes are run by alliances of local schools, focusing heavily on practical, hands-on classroom experience over a 12-month period. While typically unpaid, these programmes offer a direct pathway into the profession and sometimes include an optional Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE).
To understand SCITT, you must first know what Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) is. QTS is the professional accreditation required to teach in state schools in England and is a valued credential for roles in academies and private institutions. A SCITT is one of several pathways to achieve QTS. These programmes are designed and delivered by experienced practicing teachers within a consortium of schools, providing trainees with immediate classroom immersion. The curriculum blends online theory with significant in-person teaching practice—often up to 16 hours per week—ensuring that graduates are classroom-ready upon completion. Some SCITTs partner with a university, allowing trainees to simultaneously earn a PGCE, a master's-level academic qualification that complements the practical QTS.
Like all teacher training routes, SCITT programmes have specific entry criteria designed to ensure candidate readiness. While requirements can vary slightly between different SCITT alliances, the core prerequisites are generally consistent.
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| GCSEs | A grade C/4 or above in English and Mathematics. For primary teaching, a Science GCSE at the same grade is also required. |
| Degree | An undergraduate degree (or equivalent Level 6 qualification) from a recognised higher education institution. |
| Personal Statement | A statement submitted via UCAS, up to 4,000 characters, outlining your motivation and suitability for teaching. |
| References | Two references, typically from academic or professional sources, attesting to your character and potential. |
| Interview | A formal interview, often including a school tour, discussion of your application, and a subject-based written task. |
| Teaching Exercise | Many programmes require candidates to prepare and sometimes deliver a short teaching plan or lesson segment. |
A common point of confusion for aspiring teachers is the difference between SCITT and School Direct. Both are school-based training routes to QTS, but they have key distinctions.
School Direct often functions more like a salaried apprenticeship. Trainees are employed by a school and earn an unqualified teacher's salary while they train. This route typically requires significant prior work experience (often three years). In contrast, a standard SCITT programme is akin to a full-time, unpaid course of study. The primary difference is financial: SCITT trainees are usually not paid, though they may be eligible for tax-free bursaries or scholarships if they have a relevant degree (especially in shortage subjects like Maths or Physics). Secondly, while both award QTS, the PGCE (if offered) in a School Direct programme is awarded by a partner university, whereas a SCITT may award its own.
Choosing the right training path depends on your career goals and financial situation. Based on our assessment experience, a SCITT is an excellent choice if you thrive in practical learning environments and want to build strong connections within a local network of schools from day one. Before applying, consider these key points:
The most critical step is to verify the specific requirements and offerings of the SCITT programmes you are considering, as these can vary significantly by location and subject specialism.
