--- title: "Initial Teacher Training - How to make a successful application" url: "https://teach-west-london.schudio.com/blog/2024-11-29-09-43-00-initial-teacher-training-how-to-make-a-successful-application" school: "Teach West London" --- [Train to Teach with Teach West London in 2027-28 - learn more and apply today.](https://teachwestlondon.org.uk/initial-teacher-training/why-train-with-teach-west-london) # Initial Teacher Training - How to make a successful application ![Image of Initial Teacher Training - How to make a successful application](https://files.schudio.com/teach-west-london/images/blog/Copy_of_train_to_teach_website_banner_(1).png) 29 November 2024 [Deshnee Govender](https://teach-west-london.schudio.com/blog/author/DeshneeG) [Initial Teacher Training ](https://teach-west-london.schudio.com/blog/category/initial-teacher-training) **Ready to write a stand-out application for teacher training?** Embarking on a teacher training journey is exciting, and a strong application will give you the best chance of being shortlisted. If you’re looking to create a compelling application that highlights your strengths and dedication to teaching, check out our video tutorial and keep reading! [YouTube video](https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/iTWnuTcIOog?rel=0) **Step 1: Prepare your application materials** **Check your eligibility** - ensure that you meet the entry criteria for your chosen programme listed on Teach West London’s [criteria page](https://euc-word-edit.officeapps.live.com/we/wordeditorframe.aspx?ui=en-US&rs=en-GB&actnavid=eyJjIjo3OTU4Nzc5MzV9&wopisrc=https%3A%2F%2Ftwyfordacademies.sharepoint.com%2Fsites%2FTWL%2F_vti_bin%2Fwopi.ashx%2Ffiles%2F00b3f823a59c4d3fbc185a5aba002495&wdenableroaming=1&wdfr=1&mscc=1&hid=661365A1-C060-A000-780A-1587E7DEA2B2.0&uih=sharepointcom&wdlcid=en-US&jsapi=1&jsapiver=v2&corrid=d32e62df-e276-3010-d722-8f4abfc4fd41&usid=d32e62df-e276-3010-d722-8f4abfc4fd41&newsession=1&sftc=1&uihit=docaspx&muv=1&cac=1&sams=1&mtf=1&sfp=1&sdp=1&hch=1&hwfh=1&dchat=1&sc=%7B%22pmo%22%3A%22https%3A%2F%2Ftwyfordacademies.sharepoint.com%22%2C%22pmshare%22%3Atrue%7D&ctp=LeastProtected&rct=Normal&wdorigin=Other&instantedit=1&wopicomplete=1&wdredirectionreason=Unified_SingleFlush). **Create a shortlist** – Review courses that you’re interested in on the [Department for Education’s portal](https://www.gov.uk/find-teacher-training-courses). Consider your preferred choice(s) from the available placement schools listed on our website [here](https://teachwestlondon.org.uk/academies). Explore whether a salaried or fee-funded route suits your circumstances. See [here](https://getintoteaching.education.gov.uk/funding-and-support) for more information on the different routes. **Locate your educational records** - compile your professional and voluntary experience and order replacement documents if needed. **Consider your two professional references** -Think about people who know your skills well. Referees will only be contacted once an offer has been made and accepted. **Hear from our trainees** - why train with Teach West London? Why join a school-based immersive programme? Watch our trainees share their recommendations, advice and experience on our YouTube channel [here.](https://head%20over%20to%20our%20youtube%20channel%20to/) **Confirm if teaching is the right fit for you!** Attend one of our Get into Teaching online events to gain a comprehensive overview of our training programme or book a place on one of our School Experience Day to observe lessons and have your questions answered. View our upcoming events [here](https://teachwestlondon.org.uk/events). **Step 2: Craft a personal statement** Now that you are sure teaching is the career path for you, it’s time to write your personal statement. **Remember, we see lots of applications, so make sure yours stands out!** - **Include your transferable skills:** Not everyone has classroom experience, so think about other roles where you’ve gained helpful skills (e.g., communication, problem-solving). Have you worked with children in a different setting, such as sports, tutoring, or volunteering? - **Convey your passion and insight:** Share why teaching excites you, your experiences that have prepared you, and how this course fits your career goals. - **Pay attention to grammar and spelling:** Ensure your spelling and grammar are perfect and double-check your work using tools although do not rely too heavily on AI as we want to hear your authentic voice! - **Avoid common mistakes:** To avoid pitfalls that could lead to rejection, watch our [video on common application mistakes](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iTWnuTcIOog). **Step 3: Complete the application** List your qualifications, personal details and any work experience (paid or unpaid) accurately. Check with your referees that you have their most up-to-date information and let them know to expect a reference request. **Step 4: Review and Submit** Proof read your application for errors and ensure consistency. For more detailed information and helpful tips on creating a winning application form, please visit our ‘[how to apply](https://teachwestlondon.org.uk/initial-teacher-training/how-to-apply)’ webpage. Good luck! 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