The application process

Your Application Journey

Here’s how the process works, step by step:

Step 1: Check your eligibility

Before applying, make sure you meet the entry requirements for teacher training. You’ll usually need:

A degree (or equivalent) awarded by a UK higher education institution.
GCSE grade 4 (C) or above in English and mathematics. For Primary training, you also need GCSE grade 4 (C) or above in science.

If you’re unsure about your qualifications, you can contact us for guidance. We also welcome applications from career changers and those with international qualifications.

For more information, look at our pages on Eligibility criteria and What we look for

Step 2: Choose the Right Course

We offer a range of courses to suit your ambitions, including Primary and Secondary subject specialisms.
When choosing, think about:

Which age group or subject you want to teach.
Your career goals and interests.
The location of placements and study sites.

For more information, look at our 'Our courses' page

OR on the 'Find Teacher Training' site> choose to search by training provider and type 'The Priory Learning Trust'.

Step 3: Apply via GOV.UK

All applications are made through the government’s Apply for Teacher Training service. When you’re ready, click the 'Apply' button on our course page, which will take you directly to the course on the GOV.UK. apply system.

You’ll need to include:

The course code for your chosen SCITT programme - see our 'Our courses' for details
Your personal details and qualifications.
A personal statement explaining why you want to train to teach.

Step 4: Shortlisting and invitation

Once we receive your application, our team carefully reviews it. We’re looking for people who demonstrate:

A passion for teaching and working with young people.
A commitment to inclusion and improving outcomes for all pupils.
The resilience and reflective skills needed to succeed in training.

If your application is successful, you’ll be shortlisted and invited to attend an interview.

Step 5: The interview

Interview tasks will usually include:

A pre-prepared presentation
A teaching task or analysis of observed teaching
A discussion-based activity
An individual subject/phase specific interview, including an opportunity for you to share a portfolio of relevant work (e.g. art, music, DT).

Details of the tasks will be sent to you prior to the interview date.

You will also have the chance to ask questions and meet Mel Willcox (head of the training school) and other key members of the TPLT team. We want this to be a two-way process so you can decide if The Priory Training School is the right fit for you.

Step 6: Offers and next steps

If you’re successful, you’ll receive a conditional offer. This may be subject to completing checks such as an Enhanced DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) clearance and references.

If you’re not successful, we’ll provide feedback to help you with future applications.

Once you’ve accepted your offer, we’ll support you with pre-course preparation so you feel ready to start in September. You can also explore more about what training looks like on our website.