Why Laidlaw Teacher Training?

Laidlaw Teacher Training: Your Pathway to Teaching Excellence

At Laidlaw Teacher Training, we are committed to providing the highest quality training for aspiring teachers.

Teaching is a rewarding and impactful profession, and our Initial Teacher Training (ITT) programme is designed to equip you with the skills, knowledge, and confidence needed to excel in the classroom. No matter which of our 11 Academies you train in, you will receive exceptional support as you develop into a skilled teacher on your way to achieving Qualified Teacher Status (QTS).

First-Class Support Throughout Your Training

Our one-year school-based ITT programme includes two placements:

• Primary Placement: A longer-term placement at your host school, where you will build essential teaching skills.

• Secondary Placement: A shorter placement at a partner school, providing a diverse classroom experience.

Throughout your placements, you will receive guidance from experienced Subject Mentors—seasoned teaching professionals who offer real-world insights and hands-on support, rather than university lecturers who may not be as involved in everyday school life.

You will observe excellent classroom practice, refine your lesson-planning skills, and develop strategies to deliver engaging and effective lessons tailored to your subject area.

Choose Your Placement Location

With 11 Academies across the Trust, we work with you to ensure your placement is in a location that suits you—whether close to home or in a preferred North East setting.

Your placement school plays a crucial role in shaping your training experience and future career, which is why we offer you the flexibility to choose a school that best fits your needs.

If you'd like to visit one of our Academies before applying, please reach out to them directly.

My experience with Laidlaw Teacher Training this past year has been a really amazing one. From the start it has been a rollercoaster of hard work but I loved absolutely every second of it. I feel very strongly that I am going to be a confident and competent teacher going forwards when I start my career in September.

— Megan Picken, Laidlaw Teacher Training Graduate

University of Sunderland Qualification

In addition to in-school training, you will benefit from expert-led training delivered by the University of Sunderland, allowing you to explore educational research and best teaching practices through lectures and seminar groups.

Upon successful completion of the programme, you will be awarded:

• Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) – Accredited by the Department for Education (DfE)

• Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) – Awarded by the University of Sunderland, including 60 credits at Master’s level

In addition to your Qualified Teacher Status, you will receive a PGCE qualification from the University of Sunderland - a Top 50 UK University.

A Perfect Blend of Theory & Practice

Our school-based teacher training programme strikes the perfect balance between academic study and hands-on experience.

From day one, you will be immersed in a real classroom setting while also engaging in structured learning. This ensures you gain both the theoretical foundation and practical skills required to succeed as a teacher.

Developing Your Teaching Expertise

Our ITT programme is built on the Core Content Framework, ensuring training is research-informed and practice-oriented. Key areas of focus include:

• The Development of Learning: Explore research methods and how schools address individual learning needs.

• Subject Studies: Investigate different approaches to teaching your subject effectively.

• Practice of Teaching: Gain real-world classroom experience and develop essential teaching skills aligned with Government Professional Standards.

• Negotiated Individual Study: Conduct independent research on an area of education relevant to your professional growth.

Become Part of a Thriving Teaching Community

As a Laidlaw Trainee, you will become a valued member of our school communities. You will build a strong professional network, connect with students and families, and witness firsthand the impact of your teaching.

The relationships you form will support your professional development and continue long after your training year.

State-of-the-Art Teaching & Leadership Centre

You will also have access to our cutting-edge Teaching and Leadership Centre at Sedgefield Community College. Opened in September 2021, this £3.2 million facility provides an immersive learning environment where you can connect with future Academy leaders, share best practices, and enhance your teaching expertise.

Subjects We Offer

Our ITT programmes prepare you to teach your specialist subject at Key Stages 3 and 4 (ages 11-16).

Upon completion, you will receive:

• A recommendation for Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)

• A PGCE awarded by the University of Sunderland

Take the First Step Toward Your Teaching Career

Join Laidlaw Teacher Training and benefit from unparalleled support, expert mentorship, and high-quality training as you embark on your journey to becoming an outstanding teacher.

• How to become a teacher: Visit Get Into Teaching

• Course fees: Visit the University of Sunderland

• Funding options: Explore Get Into Teaching

Let’s shape the future—together.