Entry

This course is specially designed for adults who are thinking about a career in teaching and are ready to return to learning.

There are no formal entry requirements, but you should:

• Be eligible for SWAP – you can check the criteria here: www.scottishwideraccess.org;
• Have been out of education for at least three years;
• Be able to show relevant life experience or transferable skills that would suit a career in teaching;
• Be in the process of arranging – or already have – shadowing or voluntary experience in a local school or similar setting. This is essential for the university interview stage, which usually takes place around November or December;
• You’ll also need National 4 Maths (or equivalent) before starting, as the course includes direct entry to National 5 Applications of Maths.

Some previous qualifications may help your application, as places are competitive. 

Selection Process

We’ll look at:

• Your online application
• A formal interview
• A written task

We consider every application individually and on its own merits.

Additional Information

• If English is not your first language, you’ll need English skills at IELTS 5 or National 5 ESOL (grade B or above);
• You won’t need a PVG check to start this course, but please note that you should be aware of the requisite PVG requirements when seeking to secure relevant work experience and when applying for Teaching degree courses at university.

Your Personal Statement

In your application, please use the 'Personal Statement' section to:

• Tell us whether you’re aiming for Primary or Secondary Teaching
• Share why you want to become a teacher
• Highlight the skills, qualities and experience you feel

Learn

This programme has been approved by our partners at SWAPWest (Scottish Wider Access Programme – West of Scotland) and will cover:

• Mathematics (including the Qualifications Scotland exam in May)
• Communication and Literature
• A variety of other potential disciplines such as ICT core skills, History, Politics, Criminology, Philosophy and Sociology (subjects may vary by campus)

The programme is designed to help secure access to Year 1 of university degree study in either primary education or secondary education at a local university, with other potential degree options available too.