A SCITT (School-Centred Initial Teacher Training) is a programme co-designed and delivered by a group of schools. This is a route into teaching that has a strong emphasis on learning through the experience of teaching. In SCITT training, you receive the best of both worlds in that you combine practical experience in school alongside academic study. Essex and Thames SCITT is partnered with Anglia Ruskin University, which accredits and quality assures our PGCE courses. You will have access to their resources and facilities.

All our courses are ‘hands-on’ training routes in two separate schools (120+ days total), supported by excellent theoretical training through lectures and assignments (70+ days). All of our lecturers are experienced educators who have experience in schools. Many are practising teachers in local schools.

The Assessment-Only route to QTS is a specialised assessment route, distinct from a traditional training course, for graduates employed on a teaching contract. This route is designed for those with a diverse and comprehensive range of experience in schools or other settings, allowing them to meet all the Teachers’ Standards. To be eligible for this route, you must have been employed on the unqualified teachers’ pay scale for two years. By following this route, aspiring teachers can qualify in as little as six weeks, avoiding spending a year in conventional teacher training.

For further information on Assessment-Only and to discuss whether your experience is sufficient, please feel free to reach out to us using the form provided below.

Yes. Part-time courses are between four terms and two years in duration and are timetabled on a bespoke basis. The requirements remain the same in that you must complete a total of 120 days in a school and attend 70+ lecture days provided. There is some flexibility, however, you must be aware that some lectures must be attended at certain times of the course, and at these times, it is essential that you attend. For more information, please message our administration team using the form below.

The cost of qualifying as a teacher through the Assessment only route to QTS is £2,800, payable before the first visit.

Additional costs may apply if you are a teacher working abroad who requires an assessment team to travel to carry out an assessment in your home setting, and travel costs might apply if you work in a school a long distance away from the SCITT.  We will, of course, try our best to minimise any such costs.

At any time during the year!  We are happy to discuss the possibility of any start date with you when you apply.

You will enter the profession as an Early Career Teacher (ECT) for a two-year induction period. This period can be ‘fast-tracked’, subject to the approval of the appropriate body.

If you would like to apply for the Assessment Only QTS route, you can apply directly to us by completing the Assessment Only application form. If you have any questions, please use the ‘Contact Us’ box below, and a member of our team will be in touch.