What Qualifications Do You Need To Be a Teacher?

Introduction

Thinking about becoming a teacher, or helping someone else look into it, usually starts with working out exactly what qualifications are needed. The good news is the requirements are consistent and well documented, and there is more than one way to reach them if your GCSEs or A-levels do not quite fit the usual pattern.

The Basic Requirements

To train as a teacher in England, you need a degree, plus a GCSE grade 4 or above (or an accepted equivalent) in English and maths. If you want to teach primary, you also need a grade 4 or above in science. These requirements apply to everyone, whatever your age or route into teaching.

What If You Are Missing a Qualification?

If your GCSEs do not currently meet the required grade, it is worth looking into how to find a GCSE resit that fits around your other commitments, or a GCSE equivalency test if you would rather not resit the original exam.

If A-levels are the gap instead, an Access to HE diploma is a genuine alternative. This kind of diploma for teaching route is built specifically for adults, marked entirely through coursework and written assignments with no exams to sit, and can often be completed in around six months. Many training providers accept this diploma used for teaching applications in exactly the same way as A-levels, though it is worth confirming the exact wording with your chosen university.

At Harrogate Tutors, we know how much difference the right support makes when you are studying alongside work or other commitments, particularly if it has been a while since you last sat an exam.

Comparing Your Options

If you are still deciding which route makes the most sense, it is worth comparing the different courses to get into teaching available before settling on one path.

Subject-Specific Requirements

If you already know which subject you would like to teach, check the specific teaching A level requirements for that subject, as these can vary between courses and universities.

Applying for Teacher Training

Once your qualifications are confirmed, the next step is applying for Initial Teacher Training, which leads to Qualified Teacher Status. The Gov.uk guide for teaching sets out the different training routes and funding available, and is a good, impartial place to check before applying.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need recent qualifications to apply for teacher training?

No, your existing qualifications remain valid as long as they meet the current grade requirements, whenever they were achieved.

What if my GCSEs do not meet the required grade?

Resitting is one option, and GCSE equivalency tests are also widely accepted as an alternative.

Is an Access to HE diploma a genuine alternative to A-levels?

Yes. It is coursework based with no exams, can be completed in around six months, and is recognised by universities as valid entry onto education degrees.

Where can I check the exact requirements for my course?

It is worth checking the current qualifications for teaching guidance directly, as this can vary slightly by subject and institution.