Why Laidlaw Teacher Training?
Your Pathway to Teaching Excellence
At Laidlaw Teacher Training, we believe in transforming lives through extraordinary education. Our Initial Teacher Training (ITT) programme is designed to develop teachers who are ambitious in their goals, brave in their approach, curious in their learning, determined in their practice, and committed to making a positive impact. Through immersive, school-based experience and academic study, you’ll gain the skills, confidence, and support needed to thrive in the classroom and beyond.
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
Hands-On School-Based Training
Our one-year Initial Teacher Training (ITT) programme places you in the classroom from day one. You’ll complete two placements:
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A longer-term Primary Placement at your host school
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A shorter Secondary Placement at a partner school
This structure gives you experience across different age ranges and school settings, helping you build real confidence in your teaching.
Expert Mentorship and Support
You’ll work closely with experienced in-school Subject Mentors - not university lecturers - who offer daily support, classroom insight, and personal guidance throughout your training.
Academic Study with the University of Sunderland
Alongside your school placement, you’ll attend expert-led sessions delivered by the University of Sunderland. These cover educational theory, research, and best practice in line with the Department for Education’s Core Content Framework.
On successful completion, you’ll be awarded:
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Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) - DfE accredited
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PGCE – Awarded by the University of Sunderland, including 60 Master’s-level credits
This combination of hands-on school experience and university-led training ensures a well-rounded approach to teacher development. By blending practical classroom exposure with academic learning, you’ll be equipped with both the theoretical foundations and practical skills necessary to succeed as a confident and effective teacher. Upon completion, you’ll be fully prepared to embark on your teaching career, with the added advantage of a recognised PGCE qualification and QTS.
Flexible Placement Locations
We work with you to choose a school within our 11-academy Trust that suits your location and preferences. If you'd like to visit an academy before applying, feel free to contact them directly here.
Access to Outstanding Facilities
You’ll also benefit from our state-of-the-art Teaching and Leadership Centre at Sedgefield Community College - a £3.2 million hub for collaboration, training and innovation.
Subjects We Offer
We prepare trainees to teach their specialist subjects at Key Stages 3 and 4 (ages 11-16).
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.
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How to become a teacher: Visit Get Into Teaching
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Course fees: Visit the University of Sunderland
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Funding options: Explore Get Into Teaching