Frequently asked questions
Eligibility
- What qualifications do I need?
You will need to be a graduate (proven or predicted) with at least a 2(i) honours degree. If your degree classification is lower but you hold a PhD or Masters qualification or confirmed equivalent you will also be eligible as they equate to a 1st and a 2(i) respectively. - Do I need a physics degree?
No, however, you are very unlikely to be given a place on a course unless your degree contains sufficient physics content (examples include Engineering, Sports Science or Astronomy), or you have undertaken a Subject Knowledge Enhancement course in Physics. - I have a PhD, would I be suitable?
Yes, applications are not restricted to just graduates of first degrees. We will be awarding scholarships to individuals from a variety of backgrounds and ages. - I graduated some time ago, does this matter?
Not at all, your experiences since graduating could be very valuable to becoming a teacher. - I’m not due to graduate until later this year, can I still apply?
Yes you can providing your predicted grade is a 2(i) or above. - I have an overseas degree, will I be able to apply?
Yes, providing your degree is equivalent to the UK degree requirements stated above. You may want to clarify your qualifications with NARIC, prior to applying.
Teacher Training
- What choices do I have for teacher training?
We can only award you a scholarship if you undertake your teacher training in England and do a PGCE course or have a School Direct place. - Does the IOP arrange my teacher training course?
No, the Scholarship will be awarded independently of your teacher training. You must apply for a physics teacher training place and receive an offer before starting in September 2013. You can apply for our Scholarship at any time in this process. - Can I apply for other teacher training courses at the same time?
You are free to apply for other teacher training routes but will only be permitted to accept an IOP Teacher Training Scholarship if you choose an eligible PGCE or School Direct route. - Will I also get the government's training bursary?
No, if you are awarded a scholarship it will be instead of the government training bursary. - Can I apply if I intend to do the Inspire PGCE?
Yes. - Can I apply if I want to do a part-time PGCE course?
Yes, the scholarship support you receive will be the same but your payments will be spread out throughout your PGCE.
Scholarship Funding
- How much is the Scholarship worth?
If you are successful you will receive a £20,000 tax-free award which will be paid to you in monthly payments during your teacher training course. There is also considerable value in the additional benefits that you will receive.
Applying
- How do I apply?
Take a look at our short film on how to apply. Your first step is to complete the online application form. - I’m currently on a Subject Knowledge Enhancement course as part of a conditional PGCE offer, should I apply now or wait until I’ve completed it?
You can apply at any time but we will be assessing your subject knowledge, so you may prefer to wait until you have completed your SKE course. You can always express your intention of applying by emailing us at teach@iop.org. Keep an eye on the deadline dates. - What happens next?
If you are successful at our online application stage you will be invited to attend an Assessment Day where you will participate in group activities, be tested on your physics knowledge and interviewed. Take a look at our short film about what to expect. Prior to attending, visiting a school to get some recent observational experience is advised. Our School Experience Programme can help. - How and when will I know if I’m successful?
If you are to be awarded with a scholarship you will be notified shortly after attending the Assessment Day. You will need to secure a place on an eligible PGCE course in order for the scholarship to be validated.
If you have any further questions, email teach@iop.org.
Please note, should you be shortlisted you will be expected to attend an Assessment Day on 28 June 2013.
