What is SCITT? Understanding Primary Teacher Training with Exeter Consortium

If you’ve started exploring teacher training, you might have come across the term SCITT and wondered what it actually means. Here's a quick guide to help:
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What does SCITT mean?
SCITT stands for School-Centred Initial Teacher Training. As the name suggests, this route is centred in schools. From your very first week, you’ll be part of a classroom team, learning directly from experienced teachers and mentors.

Our SCITT programmes combine:

•  Hands-on school experience  in over 100 partner schools across the South West.
• Academic excellence through a PGCE from the University of Exeter, with 60 Master’s credits.
• Personalised support from expert mentors, hub teams and our central partnership staff.

The programme is designed to build confidence, resilience and the practical skills you’ll need for a successful teaching career.

Why choose SCITT with Exeter Consortium?
Training with us means:

• School-based from day one – start your placement in September, supported from the very beginning.
• Local and diverse experience – train in schools across the South West, from city schools to rural primaries.
• Tailored support – praised by Ofsted for being highly responsive and personal.
• Dual qualification – gain Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) and a University of Exeter PGCE.

Our SCITT Primary Routes
We offer three clear pathways so you can specialise in the phase of education that excites you most:

• Primary (3–7) – covering EYFS and Key Stage 1.
• Primary (5–11) – focusing on Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2.
• Primary (SEND) – combining mainstream placements with experience in special educational needs settings.

Whichever route you choose, you’ll receive outstanding preparation to thrive as a new teacher.

Ready to train to teach?
If you’re considering a career in teaching, our Exeter Consortium SCITT-PGCE programmes could be the perfect fit.

Find out more on our Train to Teach page.
Explore why so many trainees recommend us on our Testimonials page.