Train to Teach: PGCE and School-Based Routes
Work towards qualified teacher status (QTS) with personalised support in our schools.
When you’re ready to take the next step, we offer a range of teacher training routes that lead to Qualified Teacher Status (QTS). Whether you choose a university-led PGCE or a school-based training model, you’ll be working in real classrooms from day one. We partner with trusted providers and offer close mentoring from experienced staff across our schools. Our goal is to help you become a confident, skilled teacher, ready to thrive in the profession.
PGCE placements with trusted providers
Each year, we welcome student teachers from a wide range of universities and providers. These include the University of Bristol, UWE, Bath Spa University, Oxfordshire Teacher Training (SCITT), the University of Gloucestershire, and others. If you’re training with one of these providers, you may be placed in one of our schools — gaining hands-on experience as part of a professional, supportive team. Please use the DfE Apply website to apply to these providers.
The Excalibur PGCE pathway with the University of Bristol
As a lead partner with the University of Bristol, we also offer a unique training route: the Excalibur Pathway.
This is a full PGCE course delivered by the University of Bristol, one of the UK’s top providers of teacher education, but with a key difference: your placements are based exclusively in Excalibur schools in Bristol.
This route offers the best of both worlds: outstanding university teaching and a strong connection to our Trust’s values, people and community. You apply for this pathway directly through DfE Apply by selecting the Excalibur route with the University of Bristol.
Teaching Apprenticeships with Equalitas
We also offer the graduate teaching apprenticeship route in partnership with Equalitas. This allows trainees to earn a salary whilst working towards Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) in one of our schools. Apprentices receive high-quality training and mentoring, combining on-the-job experience with professional study. This is a great option for those who want a more school-based route into teaching with a clear path into employment.
Whichever route you take, we’re committed to helping you become an excellent teacher, and to supporting your career long after training.
Interested in applying or want to learn more? Email [email protected]