Guidance: Initial teacher training (ITT): criteria and supporting advice

The UK Department for Education has issued guidance detailing the mandatory criteria for organisations seeking to provide Initial Teacher Training (ITT) programs for the 2026 to 2027 academic year. This advice outlines the requirements necessary to achieve Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) and supports prospective and current ITT providers in meeting regulatory standards.

Why it matters

This guidance is strategically important as it establishes the foundational quality and operational standards for teacher preparation, directly impacting the future workforce capability in the education sector. Ensuring robust and consistent training criteria is critical for maintaining educational standards and the professional development pipeline for teachers.

Key insights

• The guidance specifies mandatory criteria for organisations delivering Initial Teacher Training (ITT).
• Compliance with these criteria is essential for ITT programs to lead to Qualified Teacher Status (QTS).
• The advice applies to the 2026 to 2027 academic year.
• The document aims to support organisations in meeting regulatory requirements for teacher training provision.

Source

UK Department for Education — https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/initial-teacher-training-criteria