Titan Secondary GTP Birmingham – Frequently Asked Questions

Is it possible to do the GTP in under a year?
The Graduate Teacher Programme normally lasts one year. If you already have considerable teaching experience, it may be possible to take less time. The minimum for the GTP is three months.

Is it possible to do the GTP Part-time?
Not with the Titan Partnership, however, with other providers the GTP can be undertaken part-time but the trainee must be teaching at least 0.5 FTE (full time equivalent) as the programme must be completed within 6 terms for part-time trainees. The funding is then worked out pro rata accordingly.

When can I start?
Titan Partnership admits the majority of trainees in the autumn term, beginning of September. If there are places left unallocated then it may be possible to start in January, but it cannot be guaranteed that there will be any places left for these mid academic year starts.

Can I apply to more than one Designated Recommending Body?
You can apply to several DRBs. You are advised to check with each one separately about the recruitment process and selection criteria as all will be slightly different. Some candidates also choose to apply for a PGCE place as well.

Can anyone come to the school and advise us?
Once a school has interviewed a potential Titan trainee and expressed a willingness to appoint them to the staff and support them on the programme the Office should be contacted. Where schools are new to the GTP at Titan Partnership, haven’t worked with the GTP recently, or if key school based tutors such as professional tutors or mentors have changed, an extended telephone call or an Advisory Visit should be booked. The purpose of the visit made by the ITT Manager/Coordinator to the school is to meet the mentor and professional tutor, explain the Graduate Teacher Programme, ensuring that all involved at the school have a clear and common idea of the commitment and give advice about the application.

What if I can’t find a school?
You might find it difficult to find a school if you do not have significant experience with children or young people. You could consider taking a post as Teaching Assistant in school or as a volunteer helper and making an application at a later date. You could apply for a full, part-time or flexible PGCE course for details, ring the Teaching Information Line on 0845 6000991. You could try another DRB able to accept applications from candidates without schools.

What are the skills tests?
To meet the Standards for QTS all trainees must be successful in DCSF computer-based Skills Tests in Literacy, Numeracy and ICT.

The tests must be taken before QTS can be awarded at the end of the programme but most trainees aim to take them early in the year.