Barnet stands out in London as a flagship borough for aspiring educators, offering unparalleled access to diverse teacher training pathways, deep school-university partnerships, and a thriving environment for professional development.
Overview
Barnet, located in North London, is home to Middlesex University—one of the UK’s leading providers of teacher education. The borough has over 130 primary and secondary schools, multiple further education colleges, and participates in regional consortiums and national teacher training initiatives. It combines academic rigour, practical experience, and a strong support network for both new graduates and career changers.
Teacher Training Pathways in Barnet
- Middlesex University Teacher Education: Offers undergraduate BA/BSc with QTS, PGCE (Primary and Secondary), school-based degree apprenticeships, and employment-based School Direct options.
- Barnet Partnership for School Improvement (BPSI): Delivers ongoing mentoring and professional development, connecting trainees and early-career teachers to experienced educators for support and best practice sharing.
- School-Centred Initial Teacher Training (SCITT): Hands-on routes, many based in multi-school alliances, cater to primary, secondary, and SEND (special needs) trainees.
- Specialist Routes: Apprenticeships for classroom assistants, subject enhancement (STEM, languages), and leadership development for prospective heads of department or school leaders.
Key Stats (2025)
- Number of Schools in Barnet: 133 (93 primary, 33 secondary, 7 special and alternative provision)
- Teacher Training Programs Offered: 28+ (including undergraduate, postgraduate, SCITT, School Direct, degree apprenticeships)
- Annual New Trainee Teachers: Over 650 newly-qualified teachers placed in Barnet schools each year
- Percentage of ‘Outstanding’ Schools: 36% (above London average)
- Mentor Ratio: 1 mentor for every 2 trainees during school placements
- Partnership Network: More than 500 school collaboration agreements across London and the South-East
Standout Features
- Strong support network for teaching assistants wanting to upskill while working.
- Large number of local and partner schools for diverse placements.
- Regular professional learning community events and induction for new teachers.
- Dedicated SEND and inclusion training modules.
Who Should Apply?
- Recent graduates interested in academic routes (PGCE, BA/BSc with QTS)
- Teaching assistants and support staff seeking degree apprenticeships or employment-based QTS
- Career changers looking for school-based and flexible transition routes
- Professionals with degrees in shortage areas (maths, science, languages) interested in subject enhancement training.
Contacts for Teacher Training in Barnet
Middlesex University Teacher Education Admissions
Phone: +44 (0)20 8411 5555
Email: admissions@mdx.ac.uk
Web: www.mdx.ac.uk/teacher-education
Barnet Partnership for School Improvement (BPSI)
Phone: +44 (0)20 8359 6354
Email: BPSI@barnet.gov.uk
Web: www.bpsi.org.uk
Barnet School-Centred Initial Teacher Training (SCITT)
Phone: +44 (0)20 8906 6000
Web: www.barnetscitt.org.uk
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Barnet offer bursaries for teacher training?
Yes, government and borough bursaries are available, especially for priority subjects and high-need roles.
What is the application process for teacher training in Barnet?
Most applicants will apply directly to Middlesex University, the Barnet SCITT, or through national platforms such as UCAS Teacher Training and Teach First, with interviews and school placement agreements organized once shortlisted.
Can I train part-time or while employed?
Barnet offers flexible part-time training and apprenticeship routes, ideal for teaching assistants and career changers balancing study with ongoing school work.
How can trainees access mentor support?
Mentoring is integrated into all Barnet-based training programs, with experienced teachers guiding trainees throughout placements and regular induction sessions.
Barnet continues to set the standard for teacher development in London, welcoming hundreds of new trainees each year and supporting educators at every stage of their journey. For detailed guidance, program choices, and personal advice, future teachers should start with the contacts above and discover what makes Barnet a capital leader for education careers.