In Partnership with the National Institute of Teaching

Change Lives. Make a Difference.

Begin your journey towards a rewarding teaching career with Learn Academies Trust and the National Institute of Teaching (NIoT)—a school‑led, research‑informed provider where children are at the heart of everything we do.

Why Train with Learn‑AT and the National Institute of Teaching?

Local Training with National Expertise

In partnership with the NIoT, your Initial Teacher Training combines the breadth of national expertise with the richness of local school experience.
This blended approach ensures you receive high-quality, expert‑led training while developing your practice in the communities where you want to make a difference.

National-Level Excellence

• Outstanding training delivered by experienced teacher educators.
• Immersive, classroom‑based learning from day one.
• A programme rooted in strong educational research and evidence-based practice.
• Part of a pioneering national institute shaped by a diverse community of schools.

Local Strength and Personal Support

• Placement schools across Leicestershire that are warm, supportive and experienced in developing new teachers.
• Tailored placement allocations based on your interests, context and travel needs.
• Daily mentoring from skilled practitioners who understand local pupils and communities.
• A close-knit network of fellow trainees and mentors within Learn‑AT.

Together, the partnership gives you the best of both worlds—national excellence delivered through local care, expertise and community connection.

From the start of your training, you’ll become an active member of a primary school team. You will work alongside teachers, support staff and leaders who are passionate about helping new entrants to the profession succeed.

Your training is supported by:

• A dedicated ITT Lead Mentor
• School-based mentors
• Programme tutors
• Headteachers with oversight of your placements

This ensures your training year is structured, well‑supported and positive from beginning to end.

A Research-Informed, High‑Quality Programme

Learn‑AT is committed to being a research‑engaged organisation. Throughout your training, you’ll have opportunities to explore high-quality educational research and apply it to your developing practice.

This approach strengthens your teaching and helps you grow into a confident, reflective early career teacher ready for long-term success.

Benefits of Training with the National Institute of Teaching

As part of your programme, you will benefit from:

• QTS and PGCE awarded on completion.
• Full‑time and part‑time routes available.
• Multiple funding options, including bursaries and student finance.
• A place within a new, pioneering institute powered by a national network of schools.
• Outstanding training delivered by expert practitioners.
• A training experience designed to help you make a meaningful difference to children’s lives.

Eligibility Requirements

To apply for Initial Teacher Training with Learn Academies Trust and the NIoT, you will need:

Academic Requirements

• A bachelor’s degree (or recognised equivalent).
• GCSE Grade C/4 or above in English and Maths (or equivalent).
• GCSE Grade C/4 or above in Science for Primary training (or equivalent).

Skills and Attributes

We are looking for applicants who:

• Are passionate about educating and supporting children.
• Communicate clearly and build positive relationships.
• Reflect on their strengths and areas for development.
• Show commitment, resilience and a desire to grow as a professional.

If you are unsure about your qualifications or experience, our team is happy to advise.

How the Programme Works

Training is delivered through a partnership between:

• Learn Academies Trust
• Local placement schools
• The National Institute of Teaching (our accredited training provider)

This ensures your programme is cohesive, personalised and rooted in real classroom practice.

Growing Our Own

A key aim of our programme is to “grow our own”—developing future teachers, ECTs and potential school leaders. While employment cannot be guaranteed, many trainees continue their careers within Learn Academies Trust schools.

 

 

Visit How to Apply page to start your application.