Secondary School Teacher Training

Develop your subject expertise and inspire learners aged 11–19.

What Secondary Education Covers

Secondary teaching spans several key stages, each representing an important stage in a young person’s educational journey:

• Key Stage 3 (Ages 11–14 / Years 7–9)

Pupils begin to explore a broad and varied curriculum, building foundational knowledge across subjects.

• Key Stage 4 (Ages 14–16 / Years 10–11)

Students prepare for and complete their GCSEs, building deeper subject knowledge and key exam skills.

• Key Stage 5 – Post-16 (Ages 16–19 / Years 12–13)

Many schools and sixth forms offer A-levels, vocational qualifications and further academic study.

During your secondary school teacher training, you will learn to support students academically and personally through these pivotal years.

Train to Become a Secondary School Teacher in Your Specialist Subject

Initial Teacher Training (ITT) at secondary level focuses on a subject specialism. You will train within the subject you are passionate about, developing deep curriculum understanding and subject-specific teaching approaches 

Subjects You Can Train to Teach

Core subjects: English, maths and Science.

Foundation subjects: Art and Design, Business Studies, Computing, Design and Technology, Drama, MFL, Geography, History, Music, Physical Education, Psychology, Religious Education and Sociology.

Your training will equip you to design engaging lessons, build strong subject knowledge, manage behaviour effectively and support students of varying abilities.

Alongside teaching your specialist subject, secondary teachers also help deliver:

• Personal, Social, Health and Economic Education (PSHE)

• Relationship and Sex Education (RSE)

• Wider enrichment, pastoral support and form-tutor responsibilities

These elements help young people develop confidence, wellbeing and life skills beyond the academic curriculum.

Why Choose Futures Teaching Alliance for Secondary Teacher Training?

Choosing where to complete your secondary school teacher training is an important decision. With Futures Teaching Alliance, you will benefit from a supportive, school-centred approach designed to help you grow into a confident and highly skilled teacher. 

• School-centred, hands-on experience from day one

• High-quality placements across diverse, high-performing secondary schools

• Mentoring from expert subject specialists and experienced classroom practitioners

• Tailored support throughout your training year

• Excellent employment opportunities in local secondary schools across the region

How to Apply for Secondary School Teacher Training

Attend an Experience Event

Spend time in a secondary classroom, observe lessons and speak with teachers to gain insight into daily school life.

Contact Us for Support and Guidance

Our team can talk you through your options, answer questions about secondary ITT, and help you choose your specialist subject route.

Check the Eligibility Requirements

Ensure you meet the academic, safeguarding and subject knowledge requirements for secondary ITT.

Explore Funding and Financial Support

Learn about bursaries, scholarships and student finance available for secondary trainees, particularly in high-demand subjects such as maths, physics, chemistry and computing.