Trainee English Teacher (Initial Teacher Training) - Apprenticeship route

Location
Richmond upon Thames
Hours
Full Time - 1 Year Programme
Salary
Earn while you learn on the Apprenticeship route
About the Role
Start your teacher training journey with Lift Schools and train to teach English through our school-based Initial Teacher Training (ITT) programme. Delivered in partnership with Ark Teacher Training, this Apprenticeship route allows you to earn while you learn, working towards your Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) and Qualified Teacher Status (QTS). You will spend the majority of your time gaining practical classroom experience, supported by experienced teachers and mentors, putting pedagogical theory into practice and building your teaching confidence throughout the school year.
The programme includes a two-week Summer School (2 – 13 August 2027) to prepare you with a strong foundation in educational theory, lesson planning, and behaviour management. You will receive personalised mentoring and coaching from a dedicated subject tutor and in-school mentor, weekly targeted training modules, and access to a nationwide support network across 62 schools. Graduate with recognised PGCE and QTS qualifications and benefit from fully supported progression as you gradually take on more independent teaching responsibilities.
Programme Key Details
Role title: Trainee English Teacher (Apprenticeship route)
Qualifications earned: Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE), Qualified Teacher Status (QTS), Level 6 Apprenticeship
Programme duration: 1 Year (Full-time)
Key dates: Summer School (2 – 13 August 2027)
About Our School
Lift Richmond Park is a welcoming environment that celebrates academic success and personal development. The school combines a traditional approach to discipline and uniform with innovative curriculum development. Students are encouraged to behave respectfully while feeling safe to express themselves. The school focuses on progress, attainment, cultural awareness, and offers an extensive personal development programme including trips and extracurricular activities.
Our Commitment to Equal Opportunities
We are dedicated to building a diverse teaching workforce that reflects the communities we serve. Robust support systems are in place to ensure every trainee teacher reaches their full potential regardless of background.
Experience
No prior teaching experience required. Enthusiasm for education and a commitment to developing your teaching skills are essential.
About You
- Motivated and passionate about teaching English
- Willingness to learn and develop professionally
- Able to work collaboratively with mentors and peers
- Committed to supporting student progress and wellbeing
Qualifications
- An undergraduate degree with a 2:2 classification or above (or equivalent) by the start of the programme. A degree in English or a related field is preferred.
- Alternatively, a strong A-Level in English Language (Grade C or above) will be considered.
- GCSE Grade 4 (C) or above in English and Mathematics (or equivalent).
- Right to live and work in the UK for the duration of the training year.
- Must not currently hold Qualified Teacher Status (QTS).










