With lockdown restrictions in place across the UK and schools closed to many pupils due to coronavirus (COVID-19), you may be wondering whether your plans to pursue a career in teaching have been disrupted.

Start your journey today 

The good news is that you can still apply for initial teacher training courses that start from September 2020.

Teaching is a rewarding career that provides the opportunity to change lives and inspire pupils to reach their potential. You might have had your heart set on teaching for a while or maybe recent home-schooling has piqued your interest… Whatever the case, applying for initial teacher training is an exciting first step on your journey.

Our initial teacher training providers in Portsmouth have been working hard to adapt their processes to accommodate applications from potential teachers. While interviews may look a little different due to social distancing, you can expect the same care and consideration you would get during normal times.

We've covered some frequently asked questions about the current situation and its impact on initial teacher training applications in the section below.

Please note: the following information is correct at time of publication (20 May 2020) and is subject to change.

Are interviews still taking place? 

What if I have been unable to undertake work experience in a school due to the coronavirus and school closures?

Whilst experience of working in a school can be useful if you are considering a career in teaching, it is not an entry requirement for initial teacher training.

I haven't completed my subject knowledge enhancement (SKE) course. Will that impact my application? 

You can complete your subject knowledge enhancement (SKE) course before or alongside initial teacher training. If you haven't been able to complete an SKE course, your SKE provider will make an assessment and communicate this to your ITT provider. Your SKE course can be deferred until a later date to be completed alongside initial teacher training if necessary.

Will funding still be available? 

Yes. Bursary, scholarship, school direct salaried and postgraduate teaching apprenticeship grant payments will continue as normal.

I have a specific question about my application that hasn't been answered here.

Contact the course provider for specific guidance if you have questions about the application process for a particular initial teacher training course.

Visit our dedicated your time to teach webpage to learn more about how our initial teacher training providers in the city are continuing to recruit trainees. You'll also find some top tips to help with the application process.