Teacher Training Funding, Bursaries & Scholarships

If you’re planning to train to teach in England, you may be eligible for teacher training funding through a bursary or scholarship. These financial awards help you focus on your studies and practical training without the stress of repaying loans or managing extra costs.

What Are Train to Teach Bursaries and Scholarships?

Train to teach bursaries and teacher training scholarships are tax-free payments designed to attract skilled graduates into teaching, especially in subjects where teachers are in high demand.

You can receive a bursary or scholarship while you complete your Initial Teacher Training (ITT) course. These payments do not need to be repaid, making them an excellent source of teacher training funding.

Teaching Scholarships

Scholarships are awarded by independent professional bodies and subject associations. Each organisation sets its own eligibility criteria, which may include academic performance, subject expertise, and passion for teaching.

If awarded a teaching scholarship, you’ll benefit from:

• Tax-free funding during your training year

• Free membership to professional associations

• Access to mentoring and professional development

You’ll need to apply directly to the relevant scholarship body.

Teaching Bursaries

If you do not apply for a scholarship, you may still qualify for a teacher training bursary. Bursaries are funded by the Department for Education (DfE) and are automatically awarded if you meet the eligibility requirements.

There’s no separate application process.  If you're eligible and apply for student finance, your training provider will arrange your payments, usually in monthly instalments.

Eligibility for Train to Teach Bursaries

Whether you are eligible for teacher training bursaries depends on:

• The subject you are training to teach

• Your degree classification or highest academic qualification

• Your residency status

• Enrolment on an eligible ITT or PGCE course in England

Typically, subjects such as maths, physics, chemistry, computing, and modern foreign languages attract the highest levels of bursary or scholarship funding.

Why Apply for Teacher Training Funding?

Receiving a train to teach bursary or scholarship allows you to focus fully on your training and classroom experience without worrying about additional financial pressure.

It’s part of the government’s commitment to ensuring that future teachers receive the support and recognition they deserve.

With this teacher training funding, you can invest in your professional development and prepare for a rewarding, long-term career in education.

Find Out More

For the most up-to-date information on train to teach bursaries, scholarships, and teacher training funding, visit the government website.

Find out more: Teacher training bursaries | Get Into Teaching GOV.UK (education.gov.uk)

Want to find out more about our teacher training opportunities at FTA? Then get in touch now.