Our interview process is designed to understand your strengths, your motivation for teaching and your potential to train as a primary teacher. It usually includes a panel interview, a short teaching task and a written task about safeguarding. We will also look at your communication skills and your understanding of the role. Full details will be shared with you in advance, so you know exactly what to expect.

Yes. If you need reasonable adjustments, please let us know as early as possible. We can adapt the format, provide extra time, adjust the environment or make other changes to help you take part fully and fairly. 

We do not require a set amount of recent school experience. Some understanding of what classrooms are like is helpful, but not essential. If you feel unsure, we can arrange a taster day either before you apply or before the course begins.

Yes. Portsmouth SCITT not only welcomes but encourages applications from all candidates. We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive teaching workforce and encourage applicants from all backgrounds to apply. We take equality and inclusion seriously and will support you throughout the process. 

Yes. We look at the whole application, not just recent experience. We consider your skills, values, motivation and any relevant experience from work or life. If we can see clear potential for you to train successfully and become an effective teacher, we will take that into account.

Employment prospects for primary teachers in our region are strong. Many trainees secure roles in their placement schools or within our wider partnership, and others choose to apply to schools across Portsmouth, Hampshire and the Isle of Wight. Schools value the practical experience and strong grounding that SCITT trainees bring, and Portsmouth SCITT has an excellent record of trainees moving straight into Early Career Teacher (ECT) roles. 

We support you throughout the recruitment process. This includes guidance on applications, help with tailoring your personal statement, and practice interviews. We also share local vacancies across our partner schools and provide advice about what schools are looking for in ECTs. Your link tutor and the core team can give personalised feedback and support so you feel confident when applying for your first post.

The Fitness to Teach check is a required part of joining any teacher training programme. It confirms that you are medically and physically able to meet the demands of teaching, with reasonable adjustments where needed. You will complete a confidential health questionnaire, which is reviewed by an occupational health professional. This process helps us understand how best to support you during the year and ensures that we meet national safeguarding and suitability requirements.