How to Become a Teacher: Top Routes into Teaching at Canterbury Christ Church University

Are you passionate about shaping young minds and making a difference in the classroom? Canterbury Christ Church University (CCCU) offers a wide range of teacher training routes to help you become a qualified teacher in the UK. Whether you're a school leaver, graduate, or career changer, CCCU has a pathway tailored to your needs.

Primary Education (QTS) Course Background

The BA (Hons) Primary Education with Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) is one of CCCU’s flagship programmes. It is designed to prepare students to teach across the 3–11 age range, with options to specialise in Lower Primary (3–7) or Upper Primary (5–11). The course combines academic study with school-based placements each year, supported by a network of over 400 partner schools.

Students benefit from:

- A strong foundation in child development, curriculum planning, and inclusive education

- Mentorship from experienced educators during placements

- Opportunities for international study trips to broaden educational perspectives (e.g., Spain, Ghana, Thailand)

- Guest lectures from headteachers, school leaders, and education experts

Graduates of the Primary Education course are highly sought after by schools across Kent and beyond, known for their creativity, professionalism, and depth of pedagogical knowledge.

Courses at CCCU that can lead to a Primary Teaching Career

1) Undergraduate Teacher Training Degrees with and without QTS

Start your journey with a teaching degree that includes Qualified Teacher Status (QTS):

BA (Hons) Primary Education with QTS

Ideal for those who want to teach in primary schools, this three-year course combines academic study with school placements. You'll combine hands-on classroom experience with theory, gaining the knowledge and ability to become a highly skilled teaching professional.

BA (Hons) Early Childhood Studies  

A great foundation for those interested in early years education and understanding development from before birth to age eight, using insights from a range of disciplines to understand the experiences that shape young lives and the vital role of professionals in supporting them., with progression routes into postgraduate teacher training.

2) Postgraduate Teacher Training Courses

Already have a degree? CCCU offers several postgraduate routes into teaching:

PGCE Primary and Secondary Education  

 A one-year full-time course that leads to QTS and includes hands-on teaching experience in local schools.

School Based or School Based SCITT  

Train in a school setting while receiving academic support from CCCU. This school-based teacher training route is perfect for those who prefer immersive learning.

3) Assessment Only Route to QTS

If you're already working in a school and have substantial teaching experience, CCCU’s Assessment Only Route allows you to gain QTS through a formal assessment process—no additional training required.

4) Teacher Apprenticeships

Combine paid work with academic study through CCCU’s Teacher Apprenticeship programme. This route is ideal for career changers or teaching assistants looking to qualify as teachers while earning a salary.

Why Choose Canterbury Christ Church University for Teacher Training?

To find out what it's like to study Primary Education at Canterbury Christ Church, watch their short film.

Start Your Teaching Career Today

Whether you're aiming to teach in primary education, secondary schools, or early years settings, CCCU provides the tools, training, and support to help you succeed. Explore your options and take the first step toward a fulfilling career in teaching. To find out about their routes into teaching and other courses linked with education and working with children, click here. For more details on the Childhood, Youth and Communities Foundation Degree, click here.