Introduction
London’s commitment to high-quality education begins with strong teacher training programs. Across its boroughs, aspiring educators find a wealth of pathways—university degrees, apprenticeships, school-centred routes, and specialist support for career changers and teaching assistants. Some boroughs have emerged as true leaders, offering the widest variety, greatest scale, and most innovative models for teacher training. Here, we break down London’s top boroughs for teacher training in 2025, explore their key programs, and provide practical guidance for future educators.
Barnet: London’s Flagship for Teacher Training Diversity
Barnet stands out as the capital’s principal hub for teacher training. Middlesex University in Barnet offers a comprehensive portfolio: undergraduate teaching degrees, primary and secondary PGCEs, degree apprenticeships, and flexible employment-based training. Their partnership network—with over five hundred schools and colleges—means barnstorming access to real classroom experience for trainees. Barnet’s programs cater equally to new graduates and existing school staff wanting to earn Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) while working.
Barnet’s Key Features
- School-centred initial teacher training (SCITT) for hands-on classroom practice.
- Degree apprenticeships suited for teaching assistants and support staff.
- Specialist leadership and SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) teacher pathways.
- Ongoing support from university tutors, workplace mentors, and peer networks.
Newham and East London: Urban Scale and Community Support
Boroughs like Newham, Barking and Dagenham, Tower Hamlets, Waltham Forest, and Redbridge thrive through large, diverse school communities and a collaborative approach to teacher preparation. School-centred initial teacher training (SCITT), Teach First, and direct partnerships with universities such as UCL and UEL provide immersive, real-world educator development. Programs here emphasize multicultural classrooms, urban school dynamics, and support for early-career teachers in high-need subjects.
Highlights in East London
- Intensive placements in vibrant urban schools.
- Broad support for teacher apprenticeships and graduate training.
- Leading SCITT initiatives for primary and secondary teaching.
- Diversity-focused training for multilingual and multicultural education settings.
Camden, Islington, Enfield, Haringey: North London’s Consortium Model
Central and North London boroughs offer a cooperative edge—consortium-based initiatives, robust links to the UCL Institute of Education, and strong PGCE, SCITT, and School Direct options. Trainees here experience practice across several schools and access advanced training for SEND, STEM, and subject enhancement. Community mentoring programs foster personal support and professional growth, suitable for both graduates and career-changers seeking QTS.
North London Advantages
- Consortium placements in state and independent schools.
- Close ties to UCL Institute of Education for research-driven learning.
- Advanced training in leadership, SEND, and specialist subjects.
- Peer mentoring, reflective practice networks, and ongoing professional development.
Southwark, Lewisham, Lambeth: Inclusive Teacher Training Focus
South London excels in teacher training for inclusion, wellness, and culturally responsive pedagogy. Goldsmiths and Roehampton University lead routes in early years, primary, secondary, and SEND teaching—often in partnership with community organizations serving diverse student populations. Apprenticeships, specialist pathways, and school partnerships create real impact for trainees and the communities they serve.
South London Features
- Specialist programs for SEND and inclusive teaching.
- Partnerships with local schools for early childhood and secondary education.
- Holistic support systems including counseling, wellbeing, and induction coaching.
- A flexible blend of academic, practical, and community-based training.
Hillingdon and Outer Boroughs: University-Led Teacher Preparation
West London boroughs such as Hillingdon, with Brunel University, extend robust PGCE and apprenticeship programs into secondary subjects and further education. These programs are well-suited for aspiring educators targeting advanced subject specialisms or seeking placement in outer-London schools.
West London Offerings
- Large school-university partnership networks.
- Emphasis on secondary and subject-specialist PGCEs.
- Strong links to further education colleges and apprenticeship routes.
- Research-led curriculum with continual mentor support.
The Main Routes into Teacher Training Across Boroughs
- Degree Apprenticeships: Work-based, salaried pathways combining study and teaching experience.
- PGCE (Postgraduate Certificate in Education): University-based courses with practical placements.
- SCITT: School-centred training, maximizing hands-on experience.
- Teach First: Fast-track training in disadvantaged communities, pairing theory with impact.
- School Direct: Employment-based, often leading directly to QTS and job placements.
- Subject Enhancement: Targeted courses in STEM, languages, and SEND for career-changers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which borough has the most diversified teacher training options?
Barnet, thanks to Middlesex University’s legacy and expansive partnerships, combined with the borough’s role in London’s teacher apprenticeship and employment-based training routes.
Can current school staff train as teachers?
Yes, degree apprenticeships and flexible QTS programs across Barnet, East London, and Southwark are tailored for teaching assistants and support staff intending to qualify as full teachers.
How are placements arranged?
Universities and local partnerships assign placements within accredited schools, prioritizing diversity of experience and mentorship.
Are there specialized programs for inclusive and SEND teaching?
Absolutely. Boroughs such as Camden, Lewisham, and Southwark design dedicated pathways for special educational needs, language education, and inclusive teaching.
Is funding or bursary support available?
Yes, the UK government and many boroughs offer bursaries and scholarships for priority subjects (maths, science, languages, SEND) and certain training routes.
What support is there for career changers?
Mentor networks, subject enhancement courses, and transition programs in North and East London are available for professionals entering teaching from other fields.
Conclusion
London’s teacher training landscape in 2025 offers exceptional breadth and opportunity—from Barnet’s flagship university-school systems to East London’s urban-focused SCITT and Teach First initiatives. Future educators benefit from flexible routes, comprehensive support, diversity of placements, and funding opportunities, making the capital a leader in preparing teachers for every classroom challenge. With the right borough and program, aspiring teachers will discover the resources, mentorship, and vision needed for a rewarding and impactful education career.