The Early Years & KS1 course is a one year full-time course, which runs from September through to July, leading to Qualified Teacher Status (QTS). Trainees can also opt to complete a Level 7 Postgraduate Certificate of Education (PGCE) if they feel this would be useful. The course covers the age range 3 to 7 years although trainees also spend a short time in a KS2 class.

Trainees are assigned a trained school based trainer within each school that they are placed. This person is responsible for supporting and guiding the trainee’s professional development and ensuring that they have the opportunities that they need within the school.

A trainee’s progress is assessed through regular formal and informal monitoring of teaching and written work.

Training in school progresses from observing and working alongside an experienced teacher to taking full responsibility, firstly for groups, and later for the whole class during the academic year. The course will produce qualified teachers who are competent and reflective across Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2.