Skip to content
- Home
- Train to Teach PE
Train to Teach PE
Transformative Practice
Subject expertise is vital in every field of teaching, and physical education is no exception. At Equalitas, we believe that great PE teachers go beyond simply delivering lessons, they inspire students to embrace physical activity, develop healthy habits, and understand the value of fitness.
Our PE teacher training programme prepares you to become a PE teacher who engages students, builds resilience, and fosters a love of physical activity. You’ll learn how to teach core PE concepts, manage active classrooms, and support students’ physical, mental, and social development.
Developing Inspiring Educators
Your teacher training will be led by Hayley Ellison, Subject Lead for PE at Equalitas.
With years of experience in both teaching and teacher training, Hayley brings a wealth of knowledge to the programme, helping each trainee become an impactful PE teacher.
Applications for our September 2026 programme are now closed. You can submit an enquiry about joining our September 2027 programme.
Being a PE teacher is more than teaching sports. It’s about equipping young people with the skills to live healthy, active lives and helping them realise their full potential, both inside and outside the classroom.
Course details
Trainees are supported by in-school mentors and Equalitas' secondary subject specialists
Next cohort start date:
August 26th, 2026
Programme length:
1 academic year
Schedule:
- 4 days per week teaching in school
- 1 day per week of subject-specific training with Equalitas
- 14 of these training days held in-person in London’s Knowledge Quarter
Qualification:
QTS + Level 6 Post-Graduate Teaching Apprenticeship (PGTA)
Salary:
paid on the Unqualified Teachers’ salary pay scale
Transforming Futures Through PE Education
When you train to teach PE with Equalitas, you join a community of educators dedicated to developing young people both physically and mentally. Our programme combines classroom immersion with expert-led training to help you become a PE teacher who makes a lasting impact on your students’ lives.
Take the first step
Are you interested in becoming a PE teacher? Complete our short form and a member of our team will be in touch to help you explore your options.
Eligibility criteria
To become a secondary PE teacher with Equalitas, you’ll need to meet the following criteria:
- A UK undergraduate degree (or equivalent) in a related subject
- Grade C/4 or above in GCSE English and Maths
- The right to work or study in the UK for the duration of the programme
- A commitment to inclusive, reflective, and high-impact teaching
Not sure if your qualifications meet the criteria? Follow the links below to get in touch with our admissions team:
Start your DfE Application
To start your application via the Department for Education’s Apply Portal, follow the link. After you register, you’ll be able to search for Equalitas and select us as your preferred training provider
Meet your community of transformers
Transforming through a community of practice
Where You’ll Train
Your training will take place alongside your placement in a school, where you will be employed during the training year.
Our blended learning model combines in-school experience and online learning, with 14 in-person training days in central London locations. These include practical training days in schools and unique opportunities to utilise iconic locations like London’s Olympic Park, a world-renowned venue for sports and physical education. These training days offer the space and structure to deepen your subject knowledge, engage with expert-led sessions, and connect with fellow trainees.
Featured Content
Frequently asked questions
What are the eligibility requirements for Secondary Teacher Training?
To train as a secondary teacher, you’ll need:
- A UK bachelor’s degree (in a subject related to the one you will teach)
- GCSE Grade C/4 or above in English and Maths
- To have lived in the UK for the past three years (for Teaching Apprenticeships)
- To successfully complete a suitability interview with Equalitas
Our team will help assess your eligibility and direct you to the most appropriate route.
What qualification will I gain after completing teacher training?
What qualification will I gain after completing teacher training?
Depending on your route, you’ll be awarded:
- Teaching Apprenticeship: Level 6 Postgraduate Teaching Apprenticeship (PGTA) + QTS
- Salaried School Direct: QTS only
Both routes lead to Qualified Teacher Status, allowing you to teach in UK secondary schools.
How long is the Secondary Teacher Training programme?
The programme runs for one academic year, beginning in late August and continuing through to July.
Who pays for Secondary Teacher Training fees?
If you take a salaried teacher training route, your school pays the training fees:
- Teaching Apprenticeship: £9,000 (usually funded via the school’s apprenticeship levy)
- School Direct: Also paid by the school
Our team will support your school in navigating the funding options available.
How much do Secondary trainee teachers get paid?
Trainees are typically paid on the Unqualified Teacher scale – Point 1, which ranges from £21,731 to £27,252 depending on location. Salaries are set by the employing school and apply to both School Direct and Teaching Apprenticeship routes.
It's been a positive experience training in different schools in London, working with different students and experiencing how another school runs.
Take your first step
Whether you’re ready to apply or just have a few questions, we’re here to help.