Why become a biology teacher?

 

Do you have a passion for the wonders of life and a desire to share it? Here's why becoming a biology teacher might be your perfect career move:

Spark curiosity about the living world: Unveil the mysteries of nature to your pupils! Watch their fascination grow as you explore everything from the intricate workings of the human body to the awe-inspiring diversity of ecosystems.

Nurture the next generation of scientists: Inspire a love for biology and equip pupils with the skills to become the future generation of doctors, researchers, and environmental scientists.

Make a positive impact on the planet: Biology is at the heart of environmental awareness. By fostering a deeper understanding of the natural world, you'll empower pupils to become responsible stewards of the environment.

Get hands-on and creative: Biology isn't just textbooks! Design engaging lessons that incorporate dissections, experiments, and field trips, making learning fun and interactive.

Register your interest





 

 

Which teacher training route is right for me?

We offer two routes to Qualified Teacher Status (QTS):

  • The Postgraduate Teacher Apprenticeship – ideal for those already working in schools
  • Fee-Funded Initial Teacher Training (ITT) – best for those not currently employed by a school

Whichever route you choose, you’ll receive expert support, school-based training and a nationally recognised qualification. Not sure which route is right for you? There is more guidance below:

Your situation Recommended route
✅ I work in a school Teacher Apprenticeship
✅ I do not work in a school (yet!) Fee-Funded Initial Teacher Training (we’ll find you a school!)

 

Biology Teacher Training Comparison Table

Use the table below to compare the key features of our Fee-Funded Initial Teacher Training and Teacher Apprenticeship programmes at a glance.

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  Fee-Funded ITT Teacher Apprenticeship
🎓 Awards Qualified Teacher Status only Qualified Teacher Status + Level 6 Teacher Apprenticeship
(opportunity to achieve a distinction!)
💰 Funding Student loan or self-funded £0 – funded by Apprenticeship Levy
💼 Salary

Unsalaried

Bursaries of up to £26k available to eligible candidates

 Salaried (unqualified teacher scale)
🧭 Placement School Organised by BPN Must be employed by a school
📅 Start date September 2025 September 2025
🗓️ Programme length 11 months 10 months + End Point Assessment
🎯 Ideal for Graduates not employed in a school Graduates already working in a school
📚 Study style 4 days in school, 1 day training 4 days in school, 1 day training
📍 Qualification requirements Bachelor's degree + GCSEs (English and maths) Bachelor's Degree + GCSEs (English and maths)
🏠 Residency requirements 3+ years UK residency or valid visa 3+ years UK residency or valid visa
(We cannot sponsor visas)

  How will I train to become a biology teacher?


Over the academic year, you will complete practical training in two schools. Throughout the programme, 1 day a week (20%) of your time will be dedicated to off-the-job training delivered by Best Practice Network.

Upon completion of your practical training, you will...

  • Present your portfolio and demonstrate your readiness to be awarded Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) in July.
  • (For Apprenticeship route only) complete your End Point Assessment, which includes a lesson observation and a professional discussion with an external examiner—giving you the opportunity to achieve a distinction-level award.

 


  • Induction: you will have your first day of learning and ITT Induction before the start of your training to help you prepare for the programme
  • Term 1: You will be in your host school this term. Training in school four days a week and attending online or in-person training one day a week
  • Term 2: You will spend 6 weeks in a contrasting school placement. 
  • Term 3: You will return to your host school to prepare for the recommendation of QTS
  • Term 4 (Apprenticeship only): End Point Assessment for Level 6 Teacher Apprenticeship Qualification, where you can reach distinction level in addition to your QTS!

Hear what our student teachers have to say...

 

Meet the team!