Thinking about teaching?

Explore your training options

1. Train with Us: Primary Education

   

   Northumberland Teacher Training Programme

   By joining the Northumberland Teacher Training programme, led by the Three Rivers Teaching School Hub, you will become part of a collaborative network of schools dedicated to sharing best practices and nurturing the next generation of educators. Our initiative is designed for aspiring primary teachers and includes a variety of host schools, such as first and middle schools, where trainees are valued and supported throughout their training journey. We are passionate about delivering high-quality teacher training that fosters collaboration, professional growth, and a commitment to excellence.

   In our schools, trainees feel valued and supported from day one, as each is paired with a carefully selected mentor who nurtures their development into outstanding practitioners. The Northumberland Teacher Training programme offers a comprehensive experience that combines educational theory with practical application, focusing on the National Curriculum for Key Stages 1 and 2. Passionate individuals will gain the skills and knowledge necessary to create engaging learning experiences for students of all abilities. With a hands-on approach, trainees immerse themselves in various aspects of teaching—such as lesson planning, behaviour management, assessment strategies, and pedagogical techniques—within our diverse network of host schools, ranging from first schools to middle schools.

   In the Northumberland Teacher Training programme, trainees will spend the majority of their time in a school environment from day one, gaining valuable hands-on experience in the classroom. This practical approach enables you to learn about lesson planning, behaviour management, assessment, and pedagogy while receiving subject-specific training in English, Maths, Science, and various foundation subjects from our team of specialists. Training sessions are held either at our hub offices at Esh Plaza, Great Park, Gosforth, or across our partner schools throughout the region.
   
   Throughout the year, you will receive comprehensive support both in school and at the university. Your subject mentor and lead school mentor will guide you in the classroom, while an academic tutor from Northumbria University will assist with your theoretical understanding. The Northumberland Teacher Training programme, accredited by Northumbria University, combines educational theory with practical experience, focusing on the National Curriculum for Key Stages 1 and 2, and laying the foundation for a rewarding career in teaching.

   The Northumberland Teacher Training programme, part of Northumbria University's Initial Teacher Education (ITE) provision, offers a high-quality training experience that places schools at the centre of teacher development. As you work towards gaining Qualified Teacher Status (QTS), you will also pursue a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) with 60 Master’s credits. Your training involves a variety of assessment methods, including written assignments, presentations, reflective portfolios, and weekly observations during formal placements. You will compile an Individual Learning and Development Portfolio (ILDP) to showcase your progress and demonstrate your achievement of the Teachers' Standards. With access to exceptional resources, including Northumbria's acclaimed library, you'll be well-equipped to develop your practical teaching skills alongside educational theory.

   As part of the Northumberland Teacher Training programme, you will be placed in one of our partner schools across Northumberland, Newcastle, or North Tyneside for the majority of your training year. Additionally, you will complete a placement in a contrasting school within our network. While we will consider your travel arrangements, training in two different school environments is essential and may require some travel. Throughout the year, you will gain experience teaching in both Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2.

   For more information on fees, entry requirements, and the application process, please visit our website. If you have any questions or need support regarding Northumberland Teacher Training, feel free to email us at ITT@the3rivers.net. We also encourage you to explore our School Experience and Events pages for additional opportunities to enhance your training experience.

2. Train with Us: Secondary Education

   Our secondary teacher training programme is delivered in partnership with Newcastle University, and as a lead partner, we play an integral role in the curriculum development, mentoring, and support for trainee teachers. While we do not offer our own secondary courses at present, we collaborate closely with Newcastle University to provide an enriching experience for our trainees.

   We work with a wide network of schools across Newcastle, Northumberland, and North Tyneside, facilitating both placements and training for our secondary PGCE courses. The subjects available include:

   • Computing

   • Design & Technology

   • English

   • Geography

   • History

   • Mathematics

   • MFL (modern Foreign Languages)

   • Science with Biology Specialism

   • Science with Chemistry Specialism

   • Science with Physics Specialism

   Trainees will apply directly to Newcastle University for the PGCE programme, but we remain available to offer help and support throughout the application process and beyond. Our involvement ensures that you benefit from high-quality mentoring and guidance from experienced educators.

   For further information on fees, entry requirements, and the application process, please visit our website. If you have any questions or need support, feel free to email us. We also encourage you to check out our School Experience and Events pages for additional opportunities to enhance your application or find out more.

   Please visit the Newcastle University PGCE website here for more specific information on their PGCE course structure. 

   If you have any questions or require support, feel free to contact us at 01670 501 537 or email teachingschool.hub@the3rivers.net.

3. General Info: Fees, Funding & Entry Requirements

   Tuition fees are £9,250, payable to the training provider. Don’t worry—support is available to help you through your training! For the latest information on grants, loans, and bursaries, check out the Get Into Teaching website.

   Our teacher training courses provide a practical, school-based route to earning a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE), and we aim to attract the highest quality candidates.

   To apply, you’ll need:

   • A UK undergraduate degree with at least a 2:1 classification (a 2:2 may be accepted if you demonstrate exceptional potential or have extensive experience in a school setting).

   • A GCSE grade C/4 or above in both English Language and Maths.

   • A GCSE grade C/4 or above in Science (for Primary candidates only).

   • A genuine interest in teaching and enthusiasm for working with young people.

   • Strong subject knowledge in the area you wish to teach (for secondary candidates).

   Additionally, you will need to complete a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check to ensure your suitability for working with children and young people.

   If you studied outside the UK, visit the National Academic Recognition Centre (NARIC) website to find out if your qualifications are equivalent to UK GCSEs, A Levels, and undergraduate degrees.

4. Application Process: How to Get Started

   Ready to apply? You can search for ITT courses and find partner schools in your area directly through the government website. Start by visiting Find Postgraduate Teacher Training Courses and explore your options.

   All applications are made via the DfE Apply for Teacher Training service. Applications are currently open, so don’t hesitate to apply!

   How to Apply

   If you’re interested in becoming a teacher, the Get Into Teaching website offers valuable advice on the application process, including when and how to apply. To register, you will need to provide:

   • Personal details

   • Choice of training programme

   • Education history

   • School experience

   • Personal statement

   • References

   Strengthening Your Application

   Gaining school experience is one of the best ways to enhance your application. It allows you to observe lessons and understand what teaching is truly like. We offer school experience days throughout the year, so feel free to get in touch for more information.

   When writing your personal statement, consider including:

   • Your Motivation: Explain why you want to teach and what you can offer.

   • Experience: Share how your school experiences have confirmed your desire to teach.

   • Communication Skills: Showcase your ability to convey ideas clearly.

   Be honest in your application; any gaps in your timeline will need to be addressed later, and you’ll be asked to provide proof of your qualifications.

   If you have any questions, please contact us at 01670 501537 or email ITT@the3rivers.net.

5. Upcoming Events & School Experience Opportunities

   At the Three Rivers Teaching School Hub, we offer a variety of events designed to provide information about Initial Teacher Training (ITT) and opportunities to gain valuable experience in the classroom.

   School Experience

   Gaining school experience is essential for anyone considering a career in teaching. It helps strengthen your application and prepares you for potential interviews. Spending time in a classroom allows you to observe lessons firsthand and see what it truly means to be a teacher. We offer school experience days tailored to your chosen subject to help you gain these insights.

   Before requesting school experience, please review the eligibility requirements below. For further information or to register your interest in school experience, please email ITT@the3rivers.net or register here.

   Information events

   In addition to school experience days, we host various events throughout the year, including our own online ITT information webinars. These webinars provide detailed information about training opportunities in the North East. We also participate in regional trainee teacher advice events, where you can connect with other training providers.

   If you're considering a career in teaching, join our informative webinars to learn more about training opportunities in the North East with the Three Rivers Teaching School Hub.

   Keep an eye on our events page, which will be updated with details about upcoming opportunities!

   Check out the Get Into Teaching website for other regional events.

   If you have any questions or wish to register your interest in school experience, please email ITT@the3rivers.net.

   Upcoming Events - Sign up here!

   • Thursday 17 November 2024 5pm-8pm - Get into Teaching Event at St James Park
   • Thursday 5 December 2024 - School Experience morning (various locations)
   • Monday 20 January 2025 5pm-6pm - Train to Teach information webinar (online)
   • Monday 17 February 2025 - School Experience morning (various locations)
   • Wednesday 19 March 2025 5pm-6pm - Train to Teach information webinar (online)
   • Wednesday 30 April 2025 - School Experience morning (various locations)
6. Alternative Training Paths

   In our region, there are numerous routes into teaching, offering a variety of options for aspiring educators. Below, you'll find information on various providers for both Primary and Secondary training in and around Newcastle, North Tyneside, and Northumberland.

   In addition to our own Initial Teacher Training programme—Northumberland Teacher Training—we collaborate with a range of local and national providers to deliver exceptional teacher training opportunities. Together, we strive to inspire and equip future teachers for a successful career in education. Remember, you can apply to more than one provider to find the best fit for your aspirations.

   Within the region, there are various routes into teaching. Click here for a list of providers for both Primary and Secondary training in and around Newcastle, North Tyneside and Northumberland.