The Registered Teacher Programme (RTP) offers unqualified teachers (employed by a school) the chance to achieve QTS over the course of two years, following the same pattern as the Graduate Teacher Programme (GTP), alongside topping up their 240 credits (required for entry onto the programme) to achieve degree level.

The degree programme that trainees undertake is a separate programme from the RTP. Trainees must, therefore, find a degree programme that will build on the credits that they have already accumulated for entry onto the RTP or complete level 3 of their current degree programme.

The University offers top up degree programmes in BA (Hons) Professional Studies and BA (Hons) Childhood and Youth Studies which can be undertaken by RTP applicants to gain their additional 120 credits. However, applicants are not restricted to enrolling on a programme run by the University and can contact other educational institutions.

Registered Teachers are not eligible for the TDA salary grant and for this reason are usually employed to fill a vacancy. RTP trainees need to establish themselves as class teachers (especially if they have been a TA in the school) and need the opportunity and flexibility (particularly at the beginning of the programme), to move around the school, carry out training activities, study and learn from practical experience in the induction phase and then progressively take on full class responsibility. Day release is needed for trainees to attend the Programme’s training days, in addition to the requirements of their degree.