All courses begin in September 2027 and finish in July 2028. All courses are self-funding, although some secondary programmes may be eligible for a bursary. All trainees study on a full-time basis, and you may be eligible to access student finance during your studies if you wish.

At the end of the programme, you will be awarded Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) alongside a Post Graduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) and 60 Masters (level 7) credits.

This combination provides you with a strong foundation for your teaching career, as well as a valuable postgraduate qualification and credits.

A typical training week

On an average week, you spend four days in your placement school, gaining valuable experience alongside an expert teacher. 

Every Thursday, with the occasional Friday, trainees come together for their weekly Core Training day. This takes place at St Columb Minor School, which is conveniently situated in mid-Cornwall, on the outskirts of Newquay - only 10 minutes away from the A30.

Core training provides dedicated time to develop subject and pedagogical knowledge, explore key aspects of teaching and learning and apply evidence-based research to practice. 

Your placements

Your first school placement begins in September, providing an immersive experience from the very start of the programme and this valuable experience in school enables you to relate and apply theory to practice from the offset.

Trainees complete two school placements during their training, giving them valuable experience across different school settings and communities. The main school placement takes place across the autumn term, spring term 2 and the summer term. Trainees also undertake a contrasting school placement during the first six weeks of the spring term.

Throughout each placement, trainees are supported by a Mentor (class teacher) and a managing mentor(senior leader). Together they provide guidance, encouragement and practical support, helping trainees to develop their confidence, knowledge and skills throughout their school-based training.

Placement locations

We understand that every trainee's circumstances are unique. When selecting placements, we take individual circumstances and location into consideration wherever possible.

Working with a large network of schools across Cornwall, we aim to place trainees within 40 minutes of their home (often much less). This approach supports trainee well-being by helping to reduce travel time, minimise travel costs and create a better balance between training, school and personal life. 

PGCE Study

As part of their studies, trainees work towards a PGCE alongside Qualified Teacher Status. The PGCE consists of two 3,000-word assignments and a 30-minute viva.

The PGCE is led by the NIoT academic team, who deliver regular online sessions as part of Core Training. Trainees also have access to the online library and academic tutorials providing a range of resources and support throughout their studies.

You will be able to access weekly online PGCE support sessions which provide dedicated opportunities to develop academic skills, discuss assignments and receive guidance from the academic tutors.