FAQS

Frequently asked questions about taking a PGCE course with Teaching London

VIEW OUR PGCE COURSES HERE

What qualifications will I study for?

All our school direct Trainees study for PGCE and Qualified Teacher Status (QTS). Assessment only applicants are awarded QTS only. 

How much will I be teaching?

We have a carefully structured PGCE course programme in place designed to enable Trainees to steadily build up their teaching. School Direct Trainees should, in most cases, be teaching approximately 50% of a full timetable by the end of the Autumn term, progressively building up to teaching 80% of a full timetable by the end of the programme.

Will I have to travel to another school or to the Teaching London: LDBS SCITT centre?

All Trainees do two placements and will be required to travel to these in order to ensure they experience contrasting settings. With access to over 60 schools across London, we aim to limit your travel time to a maximum of 60 minutes. Trainees will also need to travel to the Teaching London: LDBS SCITT centre or another venue for taught PGCE course sessions.

How do I get school experience?

Although it is not essential, school experience is valuable and we recommend that you approach several local schools in plenty of time; they get a lot of such requests so please don’t leave it too late. However, if you are struggling to find a place, do let us know and we will put you in touch with an LDBS school that, subject to a DBS check, should be able to help you.

What are the advantages/disadvantages of the Salaried School Direct programme vs Tuition Fee?

• If you are on the School Direct Salaried route, you will be paid an Unqualified Teacher’s salary. You are an employee of the school and you will not be eligible for bursaries, scholarships, student loans or benefits.

• If you are on the School Direct Tuition Fee route, you may be eligible for a Student Loan, bursary or scholarship as well as certain student benefits. Some schools may offer to pay all or part of your training fee.

Can I do PGCES on both the Salaried and Tuition Fee routes?

Yes, all our routes include PGCE study.