Start your teaching journey with OTT.

Finding out about teacher training can be a confusing and daunting task as there are so many routes available. The first steps can be made a lot easier by attending information events. We hold information events throughout the year where you will find out about our programmes as well as having the opportunity to ask questions.

Having some school experience will significantly enhance your application. Spending time in schools observing teachers will also help you to make an informed decision about teaching as a career and whether it really is for you.

If you have very limited or no school experience, this would not prevent us from offering you an interview, but we may recommend that you undertake a period of school experience if we feel it will be beneficial to your preparation for the programme, or finding out if the route you are applying for is the right one for you.

A good statement should highlight your strengths and how you can bring these to teaching. Think about what distinct qualities you can bring to the table that will make you an amazing teacher. In your personal statement we want to see energy, enthusiasm and a real passion for teaching and your subject or phase. Outline your reasons for wanting to teach and the qualities you have which will make you a good teacher. Where you have school experience or experience of working with young people in a different context, include this in your statement and talk about what you have learned from the experience. If you are a career changer, tell us about the transferable skills that you have.

In order to submit your application, you will need to have two references. It is vital that you choose individuals who know you well enough to highlight your potential as a teacher. If you have been in education in the last five years you should provide an academic reference (for example from a university tutor). Your second reference should be a professional reference – if you are in employment, this should be your current employer. All references should be sent from a professional email address.

When you are ready to apply, you will do this through the Department for Education’s Apply service, which manages the application process for schools and providers. You may select up to four schools or providers – we can be found by searching NIoT@Ormiston. Remember, your personal statement is the core of the application, so take the time and effort to research and prepare.

Once you have submitted your application, if you have met all of the entry requirements and have submitted a strong application, you will be invited for an interview. Interviews are held online. There is nothing to be worried about – our team are looking for the personality and skills that make a great teacher, not how well you respond to formal questions. Key areas we are looking for include:

• Suitability for the profession
• Subject knowledge and awareness of what constitutes high quality teaching and learning in your subject or phase
• Rationale for wanting to become a teacher
• Interpersonal and communication skills
• Awareness of the qualities needed to be a good teacher
• Awareness of educational issues
• Awareness of safeguarding young people
• Literacy and numeracy skills
• Resilience