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FAQs

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These are some of the Frequently Asked Questions we get at CTTC. If your question isn’t answered here, please get in touch via: enquiries@colchesterttc.org.uk

You need to have a bachelor’s degree before you start your teacher training.

For Primary teacher training, your degree can be in any subject.

For Secondary, CTTC will want to make sure you have a sound knowledge of the subject you’re applying to teach. Most applicants will have a degree in a related field to the subject they wish to teach but knowledge could also come from relevant industry experience or from having an A Level qualification in the subject. Subject Knowledge Enhancement Courses are available in some Secondary subjects.

You will need GCSE English Language and Maths at a grade 4/C or above (or equivalent) and Primary (3-7 and 5-11) applicants will also need Science at grade 4/C or above (or equivalent).

If you have an international qualification, you will need to obtain a Statement of Comparability from UK ENIC to progress your application. For more information, and to apply for your ENIC statement, please visit Statement of Comparability.

Unfortunately, CTTC cannot sponsor your visa, and you must have permission to work in the UK full-time by the start of and for the duration of the training year.

The course is 37 weeks along and runs from September until July. Before the start of the course in September, trainees are invited to attend an Induction Day at CTTC in July.

Your training consists of two contrasting school placements across your chosen age phase, along with weekly face-to-face, centre-based training and engagement with evidence based academic research. There is also the opportunity to gain experience within specialist SEND (Special Education Needs and Disabilities) and provision in the Key Stage either side of your chosen age phase, for example, a Sixth Form college or nursery setting.

We have a high number of schools within our Consortium across Essex and Suffolk who offer diverse placements to trainees. Trainee suggestions for their choice of placement school, are welcomed.

Teaching has a high level of job security and employment rates. The starting salary for a new teacher has risen to £31,650. Once employed within a school, there are many opportunities for career progression.

All Secondary subjects are led by a Lead Subject Mentor who is a specialist in their discipline and who has extensive teaching experience. Secondary trainees meet regularly with their Lead Subject Mentor throughout their training year for interactive subject study sessions. These weekly afternoon sessions, of which there are approximately 20 throughout the training year, help trainees to develop their subject knowledge in greater depth and are an ideal opportunity to work closer with their fellow subject trainees. The sessions are adaptive and tailored to the needs of the cohort.

At successful completion of the course, you will be awarded Qualified Teacher Status (QTS). Trainees can also achieve a Postgraduate Certificate in Education, validated by the University of Suffolk.

Your Interview with CTTC

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We understand that the thought of an interview can feel daunting – but please don’t worry. At Colchester Teacher Training Consortium, our interview process is designed to be welcoming, supportive and to help you show your potential to train to teach, not to catch you out.

We’re not expecting the finished article. We’re looking for individuals who are enthusiastic, reflective, and ready to learn – people who care deeply about young people and who want to make a difference in the classroom.

What to Expect

Once we receive your application through the DfE Apply system, our CTTC Directors will carefully review it. If you’re shortlisted, we’ll invite you to the next stage: an in-person interview day.

Here’s what that will involve:

Teaching Task

You’ll be asked to complete a short task that gives us a feel for your subject knowledge and your ability to communicate clearly.

  • Primary: You’ll deliver a 10-minute activity or mini-lesson to a small group of around 6 children. You can choose both the topic and the year group – it’s a chance to teach something you’re passionate about.
  • Secondary: You’ll present a lesson plan you might use to teach a Year 7 class in your subject. We’re not expecting perfection – just insight into your subject and how you might share it with learners.
Apply Now

Maths and English Tasks – Nothing to Worry About!

We know that the idea of a “test” can make people nervous – but please be assured, this part of the interview is simply to check you have the basic skills needed to begin training. It’s not about catching you out or expecting perfection.

These tasks are short, straightforward, and completed in a relaxed environment. We’ll talk you through everything on the day, and you’ll have plenty of time.

  • The Maths Task
    This is a short, non-calculator task at upper Key Stage 2 level, similar to what pupils would cover in Years 5 and 6. It includes number, calculations, and problem-solving. We’re looking for a secure grasp of the basics – nothing too advanced, and we’re happy to support if you need a confidence boost.
  • The English Task
    You’ll be asked to handwrite a letter in response to a message from a parent. This helps us get a sense of how you communicate in writing – tone, clarity, and grammar – skills that are important in the classroom and beyond. We’re not marking you on style or flair, just looking for clear, professional communication.

If you’re unsure about either task, or feel you may need extra support, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us. We want you to feel as comfortable as possible and to do your best on the day.

Interview

You’ll have a friendly interview with two members of the CTTC team. We’ll ask about your experiences, your motivations, and your understanding of teaching.

Topics may include:

  • Your interest in working with children or young people
  • Knowledge of the curriculum or school environment
  • Safeguarding and professional conduct
  • Your potential to develop into a confident, skilled teacher

We genuinely enjoy meeting our applicants and learning more about your journey so far.

Anshu Chaturvedi – CTTC Administrator

After Your Interview

Once your interview is complete, you’re free to leave. We aim to contact all candidates within 24 hours to let you know the outcome.

If successful, we’ll invite you to attend our Induction Day in July, where you can meet fellow trainees, our staff, and start preparing for your exciting year ahead.

What to Bring on the Day

To ensure we can process your application smoothly, please bring the following documents:

  • Photographic ID (passport and/or driving licence)
  • Birth certificate
  • Proof of any name changes (e.g. marriage certificate or deed poll)
  • Original GCSE certificates for English and Maths (and Science if applying for Primary)
  • Original degree certificate (if you have completed your degree)

If you’re missing any of these on the day, don’t panic – just let us know in advance and we’ll help you make arrangements.

If you have any questions or need additional support before your interview, we’re here to help – please don’t hesitate to contact us.

We look forward to meeting you!

Entry Requirements

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We’re excited that you’re thinking about training to teach with CTTC. We welcome passionate individuals from all backgrounds who are ready to make a difference in the classroom. Below, you’ll find the essential entry requirements, what we look for in great teachers, and how we can support you every step of the way.

Academic Requirements

To begin your teacher training, you’ll need:

  • A UK degree (or recognised equivalent), completed before your training starts.
  • GCSE grade 4 (C) or above in:
    • English and Maths for all candidates.
    • Science (Biology, Chemistry or Physics) – if you are applying for Primary (3–11) teacher training.

Equivalency Testing

If you do not have GCSE Maths, English or Science (Primary only) at Grade 4/C or above, you can take an equivalency test instead. We only accept equivalency tests from A Star Equivalency www.astarequivalency.co.uk/ and Equivalency Testing www.equivalencytesting.com

Unfortunately, we are not able to accept Key or Functional Skills (Level 2) certificates in place of a GCSE

If you gained your qualifications overseas, you’ll need to provide a UK ENIC certificate of comparability to show that they meet UK standards.

Need to Boost Your Subject Knowledge?

You may be eligible for a fully funded Subject Knowledge Enhancement (SKE) course if your subject knowledge needs refreshing or extending before you start training. These are available in a range of subjects and could help if:

  • You finished your degree over 5 years ago
  • Your degree is related, but not in the subject you want to teach
  • You hold an A level in your subject but not a degree
  • You have relevant professional experience in your chosen subject
  • You studied a language and want to improve fluency in a main or second language

We’ll discuss whether an SKE course is suitable for you during the application or interview process.

What We’re Looking For

Great teachers aren’t just knowledgeable – they’re inspiring, adaptable, and committed to working with young people. We look for trainees who demonstrate:

  • A real enthusiasm for teaching and learning
  • The ability to build positive relationships with children, young people, and colleagues
  • A willingness to learn, reflect and grow during training
  • The resilience to stay calm and focused in challenging situations
  • Clear written and verbal communication skills
  • Good organisational skills and a strong work ethic
  • A commitment to your own professional development
  • Interests or experiences that help you connect with young people

School or Relevant Experience

You don’t need school experience to apply for Initial Teacher Training – but if you have it, that’s great. Volunteering or working in a school before or during your application can give you valuable insight into the profession.

Relevant experience could include:

  • Volunteering in schools, youth clubs, Scouts/Guides, or church youth groups
  • Working as a tutor, teaching assistant, cover supervisor, or in a pastoral role
  • Bringing subject expertise from a previous career

If you’d like to gain experience before applying, we’d be happy to help arrange a school visit. Just get in touch!

Apply for School Experience Here

Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) Check

All teacher training routes require a satisfactory enhanced DBS check. You’ll complete this as part of the induction process, and we’ll guide you through each step to ensure everything is in place before you begin your training.

If you have any questions about your eligibility or how to prepare for teacher training, we’re here to help – just get in touch with our team.

How to Apply

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‘Trainees attending Colchester Teacher Training Consortium are prepared superbly well to be teachers of tomorrow.’ – Ofsted, 2024

Ready to Begin Your Teaching Journey?

We’re thrilled that you’re considering training with Colchester Teacher Training Consortium. Becoming a teacher is one of the most rewarding and impactful career choices you can make – and at CTTC, we’re here to support you every step of the way.

Whether you’re passionate about shaping young minds in the classroom or making a difference in your community, our Ofsted Outstanding training programme will give you the strongest possible start.

Applications are made through the Department for Education’s Apply service at: www.apply-for-teacher-training.education.gov.uk/candidate

You can submit your application from October for courses beginning the following academic year. We recommend applying early, as we recruit on a rolling basis until all places are filled.

If you have any questions about the application process or need support at any stage, please don’t hesitate to contact us – we’re here to help.

Entry Requirements
Our Interview Process
FAQs