FAQs
How do I learn at The Red Rose Alliance?
You will be trained by teachers within our alliance of schools and receive specialist input from University of Cumbria staff leading to the award of Postgraduate Certificate of Education with QTS (Qualified Teacher Status).
What qualifications do I need to apply?
A degree from a United Kingdom higher education institution or equivalent qualification, as well as a standard equivalent to a grade 4 in the GCSE examinations in English and mathematics is required prior to commencement of the course.
What subject knowledge will I require?
Prior to the award of QTS, candidates must be able to demonstrate secure knowledge of fundamental English and mathematics. Subject enhancement courses are available for some secondary subjects, for example if a degree subject does not link with the chosen teaching subject.
What experience will I need?
No teaching experience is required, but evidence of relevant experience of working or volunteering with young people would be useful, particularly if it is in within the age range the candidate is wishing to teach. It is advised, but not essential, to have undertaken a school experience day prior to applying. For more information on this visit the school experience day section of our website.
How much does it cost to train with the Red Rose Alliance?
Training with the Red Rose Alliance means you’ll gain a PGCE with the University of Cumbria alongside Qualified Teacher Status. Tuition fees for 2025/26 are £9,535, and most trainees choose to cover this through a tuition fee loan and, if eligible, a maintenance loan to help with living costs — both available via Student Finance.
On top of this, generous tax-free bursaries and scholarships are available for priority subjects such as maths, physics, chemistry, computing and languages. You don’t need to apply separately — eligibility is checked when you apply. To explore the latest bursary amounts and scholarships, visit Get Into Teaching – Funding and Support.
What will the teacher training year be like?
Further details about the programme can be found here: https://brts-2.schudio.com/welcome/about-the-programme.
How can I find out more information?
We will be delighted to help with any enquiries regarding our training programme. If you have any questions please call 01772 600349 and ask for Mrs Helen Winter, or email us at teachertraining@bishopr.co.uk.