To strengthen your Initial Teacher Training (ITT) application, gaining relevant experience is beneficial. Previous or current experience with children, particularly if it’s not part of your work history, not only demonstrates your commitment but also helps you develop essential skills. Here are some key types of experience that can enhance your application:

  • Classroom experience in the UK 

Observing and assisting in a school setting is one of the most valuable experiences for aspiring teachers. Spending time in a classroom allows you to understand the dynamics of a real teaching environment, observe different teaching methods and classroom management strategies, gain insight into how lessons are planned and delivered and develop confidence in interacting with students. Whilst we're keen to see classroom experience in general, it's always valuable to observe how teaching and learning occurs in the UK specifically. Many schools offer volunteering opportunities, so reaching out to local schools can be beneficial.  Additionally, one-on-one or small group tutoring experience, whether paid or voluntary, showcases your ability to explain concepts and engage with learners. Opportunities include tutoring younger students in academic subjects, mentoring programmes for school students, online tutoring platforms. This experience highlights your ability to communicate effectively and support student learning. 

  • Youth work or coaching 

Working with children and young people outside the classroom demonstrates transferable skills, such as leadership and teamwork, patience and adaptability, behaviour management and motivation techniques. This could involve coaching a sports team, leading a Scouts or Guides group or participating in community youth projects. 

  • Teaching Assistant or support roles 

Working as a Teaching Assistant (TA) or in other support roles, such as a Special Educational Needs (SEN) assistant, provides direct experience in classroom settings. It allows you to work closely with students needing additional support, assist teachers in lesson delivery and gain first hand experience of school policies and procedures. 

  • Relevant work experience with children 

Any experience that involves working with children, such as summer camps, after-school clubs, tutoring or nursery work, is valuable. It shows that you are comfortable managing groups of young people and can build rapport with them. 

  • Experience with diverse learning needs 

Having experience working with children from different backgrounds, including those with special educational needs, English as an Additional Language (EAL), or disadvantaged backgrounds, is a strong asset. Schools value candidates who understand inclusivity and differentiation in teaching. 

  • Subject Knowledge 

For those applying to teach specific subjects, additional expertise or industry experience related to the subject can be beneficial. For example, a mathematics graduate tutoring A-level students, a scientist volunteering in STEM outreach programs or a language student leading conversation clubs. We’re keen to see prospective trainees who have used their subject knowledge in a practical way outside of university, for example as part of their job. For secondary courses, we ask that your undergraduate degree should be in, or closely related to the subject that you are applying to train to teach in. (As a general rule, at least 50% of your undergraduate degree should relate to the teaching subject that you are applying to train to teach in. we will also take into account the A-Level Subjects/ Post 16 qualifications that were studied too). 

How to Gain Experience 

  • Contact local schools to ask about volunteering or observation opportunities. 

  • Sign up for tutoring programs. 

  • Join youth organisations that involve working with children. 

  • Apply for teaching assistant roles. 

  • Participate in community education projects. 

Other events and opportunities 

Other events and opportunities can bolster your application and help you decide whether teaching really is the career for you. Teach West London organise several events including regular Get into Teaching (online) and School Experience Days. Additionally, attending DfE Get into Teaching events, speaking to a Get into Teaching Advisor and reading up on the National Teaching Standards can provide valuable insights. Reading the information on our website and watching the videos will also help you prepare for your application. 

A strong ITT application showcases not only your academic credentials but also your practical experience and commitment to teaching. Taking proactive steps to immerse yourself in these environments will not only boost your application but also prepare you for the rewarding challenges of the teaching profession. 

Keen to make a successful Teach West London application? Watch our video for more tips!