Overview of Troops to Teachers Policy (DfE)

Implementation of the formal ‘Troops to Teachers’ policy still remains ‘proposals’ at this point in time (September 2011). The TA are currently still awaiting ministerial approval on the ‘Troops to Teachers’ submission. However, Service Leavers can still apply using existing provision. What the Government is proposing is an enhanced support process and a new route specific to non graduates.

Proposals for Implementing ‘Troops to Teachers’

• The TA, working with the MoD, is planning to set up an enhanced support process for Service Leavers looking to become teachers commencing in September 2011
• The TA wants to work with ITT providers to develop a ‘Troops to Teachers’ compressed ITT route for non-Graduate Service Leavers
• The TA will work with ITT Providers to explore how the GTP can be enhanced to meet the needs of Graduate Service Leavers

Graduates

It is proposed Graduate Service Leavers will have enhanced support to access the right route into teaching for them. In most cases it is anticipated this will be the employment based GTP route. For the most outstanding Graduates, another new Government scheme “Teach Next” will offer a fast-track to leadership. Those recruited to the PGCE will need to meet same requirements as others to obtain bursaries (i.e. subject focus and degree classification).

The key features for Graduates will be to maximise opportunities during the 2 years re-settlement period, provision of additional support, and additional modules for leadership and management to support career progression.

Non-Graduates

Government proposals for non graduates wishing to train to become teachers will revolve around a Compresses Undergraduate Route. This is likely to be over 4 terms. There will be entry requirements (details not yet available) but for those eligible – with the relevant skills, experiences and (some) prior qualifications/credits, the key features of the programme will include on the job training leading to QTS, a salary/bursary and an academic top-up degree.

For Service Leavers who would prefer not to, or are not eligible to, become teachers there will be opportunities to train and work with young people in schools as mentors, sports instructors and coaches etc. Skill Force (and other agencies) will provide these opportunities from Sept 2011.

It is anticipated that Service Leavers will probably want to undertake some school experience prior to applying for teacher training to confirm this is the career for them.