Postgraduate Teacher Apprenticeship (PGTA)
At Birmingham Newman University, we believe in helping people grow into confident, compassionate educators.
Our Postgraduate Teaching Apprenticeship (Primary) offers a 12-month, employment-based route into teaching that allows you to earn a salary while working towards Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) and an apprenticeship qualification.
As an apprentice at Birmingham Newman, you will benefit from the combined expertise of skilled school-based mentors and experienced university tutors. Most of your week will be spent learning in the classroom alongside knowledgeable colleagues, gaining practical experience. In addition, you will take part in university-based Initial Teacher Education (ITE), providing structured off-the-job training that bridges theory and practice.
Applicants must be employed by the school for the duration of the programme (12 months) in order to complete the apprenticeship. Schools can only nominate candidates if they can offer this role as a paid position on the unqualified teacher pay scale.
Course details
- Award: Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)
- Duration: 12 months / Full-time
- Entry requirement: Undergraduate degree (any)
- Accreditation: Department for Education (DfE)
- Course fees: £9,000
If you would like to find out more about this course, please contact:
Roy Broadfield
Primary Teacher Apprenticeship Lead
Email: r.broadfield@staff.newman.ac.uk
Why study this course?
Choosing the Postgraduate Teaching Apprenticeship means choosing a pathway that values your individuality and your future.
You will:
- Earn while you learn, with apprentices paid at least at UNQ1 on the unqualified teacher pay scale.
- Benefit from small, supportive learning environments where your goals and strengths are recognised.
- Learn from staff who are not only experts in their fields, but who care deeply about helping you grow into an impactful educator.
- Access a wide range of resources, including our in-person and digital library services, designed to support your academic development.
- Join a close community where wellbeing, personalised support and belonging are at the heart of the training experience.
Every apprentice at Birmingham Newman is part of a community committed to improving lives through education — starting with yours.
What does the course cover?
This programme blends the day-to-day reality of life in the classroom with dedicated university teaching designed to help you develop as a reflective, research-informed practitioner.
You will:
- Spend four days per week in your employing school from day one, becoming a valued part of the staff team.
- Attend weekly training sessions every Friday at Birmingham Newman University, where you’ll explore pedagogy, theory and the latest educational research.
- Put new knowledge into practice immediately when you return to school.
- Complete a six-week placement in a second, contrasting school in early spring, broadening your experience and strengthening your skills.
This combination ensures you feel supported, challenged and ready to make a real difference in the classroom.
How will I be assessed?
Your development will be guided by a school-based mentor and a dedicated university tutor, both committed to helping you succeed.
Assessment includes:
- Ongoing professional evaluations
- An e-portfolio showcasing your progress, evidence and reflections
- Regular lesson observations
- Review of the Knowledge, Skills and Behaviours required to meet the Teachers’ Standards
At the end of the programme, you will complete an End Point Assessment, during which consideration for QTS is confirmed.
What careers could I consider?
This apprenticeship is a direct route into becoming a Primary School Teacher.
Upon successful completion, you will be a fully qualified teacher with the skills, confidence and experience to influence the lives of children in your community.
Entry requirements
Applicants must have:
GCSE Grade 4 (C) or above in English, Mathematics and Science, or equivalent qualifications
Equivalency tests are available through the University where needed.
A UK undergraduate degree (or recognised equivalent, supported by ENIC if required)
Course fees
The programme fee is £9,000, which can typically be covered through the apprenticeship levy.
For many schools, this means there are no direct training costs for either the school or the apprentice
Additional costs
Apprentices are employed by the school and paid at least at UNQ1, with the school responsible for associated employment costs. Apprentices are full-time staff members for the duration of the 12-month contract.