The Application Process
We believe in nurturing and supporting our trainees throughout their teaching journey, including providing support to get you started.
Our website aims to guide and support you through the application process. Our training provider's friendly team are also on hand if you require any additional support, and you can contact them at 0121 441 6175 or via email at trainingschool@bishopchalloner.bham.sch.uk
What Do I Need To Apply?
- An Honours Degree is a pre-requisite for any teacher training course. (For secondary programmes the degree should be related to the subject you wish to teach. Subject Knowledge Enhancement Programmes may be available in certain subjects.)
- You will need to have GCSE grade C/4 or above in English and Mathematics. A GCSE Grade C/4 in Science is also required for Primary trainees. If you do not meet the GCSE criteria you may be asked to sit a GCSE or equivalency test.
If you are an non-uk citizen you will be asked for a comparability statement from the UK European Network of Information Centres (UK ENIC). The Get into Teaching service can help you with a free digital e-statement of comparability once you have submitted your application.
How/When Do I Apply?
Applications open each year via DfE Apply, you can access this portal by clicking HERE.
When applying, you will be asked to select your chosen provider (You can find us by searching Holy Cross Catholic Multi Academy Company - code 6J6). The DfE application portal also includes a separate section that provides details on school and work experience. You should provide your full work history. Remember, your personal statement is the core of the application, so it is important to take the time and effort into this section.
The application window for a September 2025 start will end on the 11 July 2025.
Once you've selected your chosen provider, you can select your preference for which school location you're interested in.
Completing The Application Form
Like any application, being prepared and showcasing your strengths is important.
Firstly, please ensure that you have all your original qualification certificates. You will be asked to evidence the qualifications that you list on your application form, if you can't find them you will be able to request a copy from the relevant exam board.
Secondly, please ensure that you detail a full work history. If you have any gaps in your employment that are not accounted for this could delay any interview process.
Your Personal Statement is a key section within your application. Spend time ensuring that you highlight your strengths and how you can bring these to teaching.
Explain your reasons for wanting to teach and the qualities you have which will make you a good teacher. Make reference to any school experience or experience working with young people. If you are a career changer tell us about the transferable skills that you have.
We are looking for trainees to demonstrate a passion for teaching and the ability to interact well with young people.
If you are invited to interview, we will also require some form of Photo ID (Driving License/Passport)
The Interview Process
We aim to review your application as quickly as possible. There may be a delay in this process during any holiday period.
Initially, we will check your training eligibility and contact you with any questions or request further information.
Once we have established this, we will advise you of whether you have progressed to the interview stage, based on the quality of your application. Currently, all of our interviews are online and will consist of an interview panel of at least 2 people.
We will inform you of any interview via e-mail and the DfE Apply portal. The process has 3 key elements, all of which are designed to support you to showcase:
- your suitability to teach
- your interpersonal and communication skills
- Your subject knowledge and awareness of what constitutes high-quality teaching and learning
- your awareness of the demands of a teacher
Our interview process, like everything we do, is supportive and nurturing.