The reality is a little more nuanced.

The best time to apply for teacher training is when the timing is right for you.

At Portsmouth SCITT, we welcome applications throughout the recruitment cycle and continue to review candidates carefully as the year progresses. For a September 2026 start, there are currently still spaces available across our programmes.

That said, there are some practical considerations worth keeping in mind. We recruit to a set number of places each year, and once those places are filled, we close the course. For our primary programme, this is typically around 25 trainees in Portsmouth and up to 15 on the Isle of Wight. For secondary, numbers vary depending on subject-specific capacity across our partnership school, meaning some subjects may fill more quickly than others.

So while it is not “too late”, there is a balance to strike.

If you are confident that teaching is the right next step, applying sooner gives you the best chance of securing a place in your preferred location or subject. It also allows more time to prepare for the year ahead.

However, applying early should not come at the expense of applying well.

We would always encourage candidates to take the time they need to feel ready. A strong application is one where you can clearly articulate why you want to teach, reflect on your experiences, and demonstrate an understanding of the profession. That level of thought and preparation is far more important than submitting your application at the earliest possible opportunity.

For many applicants, particularly those changing career or balancing other responsibilities, reaching that point of readiness takes time. That is entirely expected, and it is reflected in the diversity of our cohorts each year.

If you are still considering applying, this is a good point to take stock. Have you spent time in a classroom, or spoken to teachers about their experiences? Can you explain what draws you to the profession? Are you ready to commit to a challenging but rewarding training year?

If the answer is yes, then now is a very good time to apply.

And if you are not quite there yet, that is equally valid. Taking a little longer to prepare can make all the difference to how confident you feel, both in the application process and when you begin the course.

At Portsmouth SCITT, we take pride in getting to know our applicants as individuals. We are not simply looking to fill places quickly, but to build a strong cohort of trainees who are ready to learn, reflect and grow into the profession.

Whenever you choose to apply, we look forward to hearing from you.