You need to have, or achieve by the start of the course, the following qualifications:

• A degree from a UK Higher Education Institution, or equivalent qualification. This will usually be second class honours or above.
• At least 50% of your degree content will usually be in the subject* that you wish to teach.
• GCSE in English language at grade C/4 or above, or equivalent qualification.
• GCSE in Maths at grade C/4 or above, or equivalent qualification.

Subject knowledge in secondary is very important, but it is possible in some subjects for us to make an offer even where there is a subject knowledge deficit (see below). If you are a native speaker of French, Spanish or Urdu and you will train to teach this language, your degree can be in any subject.

Should you have significant subject knowledge in biology, design and technology, English, maths, physics, chemistry, computing, religious education or a language (French, Spanish) but it is not equivalent to 50% of a degree, we may be able to make a subject knowledge enhancement (SKE) programme a condition of an offer of a PGCE place. We will look at post-16 qualifications and work experience as well as your degree transcript/modules when making judgements. Please note that you cannot apply for an SKE until you have accepted a PGCE offer which has SKE as a condition (length of the programme is specified in the offer). You may wish to contact us in advance of submitting an application. See the Get into teaching website for more information.

You need a passion for teaching and developing young people. You will want to make a difference in some of the most socio-economically deprived areas of Birmingham. You will have excellent communication skills and be reflective, able to respond positively to feedback and learn from your mistakes. We are looking for resilience, trainees who can both work hard and keep trying when things do not go to plan. We need team players, willing to support others – and to be supported. You need to be organised and highly professional at all times. And you need to enjoy learning yourself!

We do not require school experience for applications to our programme. However, we would recommend that you spend at least one day in a secondary school before you commit to starting a programme. We offer the opportunity to visit Waverley School to applicants who are offered a place on our programme following a successful interview. The Get School Experience service also offers opportunities to eligible candidates in some Birmingham schools.

The requirements below need to be met by successful applicants following acceptance of our offer:

• Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) clearance.
• Fitness to Teach process.