How much subject knowledge do candidates need?
We expect candidates to have a suitable level of relevant subject knowledge. However, we do not expect candidates to know all there is to know about their chosen secondary subject since the elearnITT programme offers subject knowledge integrated with initial teacher training and provides opportunities for candidates to improve and enhance their existing subject knowledge.
To assess candidates’ subject knowledge and suitability, Hibernia College uses a panel of subject knowledge experts throughout the application, recruitment and selection process. The panel assesses whether or not each candidate has sufficient existing subject knowledge such that, when combined with the subject knowledge that is integrated within the programme, the trainee will reach the required level of competence in the relevant subject. We will not waste your time and we will not take risks with your future. If the panel feels your existing knowledge does not provide a suitable platform from which to develop during the programme, then we will tell you so and give you reasons.
There are no hard and fast rules about existing subject knowledge and each candidate is appraised on an individual basis. Typically, however, we might expect candidates to have a minimum of an A-level, or equivalent qualification, in the specialist subject they have chosen. Preferably, a candidate’s first degree might also contain a significant element or relevant subject knowledge (a third or more of the degree). We do ask candidates to provide transcripts of their first degree for our panel of subject experts to look at. We will also take into account other higher education and professional qualifications that provide relevant subject content and subject knowledge can also be gained through work experience.
In exceptional, more complex cases, potential candidates may ask, through our helpline and/or enquiry email address, for an initial pre-application subject knowledge assessment from one of our subject knowledge experts. This initial assessment is not binding but may help a potential candidate decide whether they wish to apply.
elearnITT is an integrated ITT and SKE programme leading to QTS. The SKE component is an extensive programme which prepares trainees to be confident and competent masters of their subject. We strongly encourage all trainees to undertake the full SKE programme. However, those trainees with extensive and recently acquired subject knowledge may be offered the option to undertake a shorter SKE programme as part of elearnITT. A subject knowledge audit carried out at induction will determine what options are available. Trainees opting for the shorter SKE will have a lighter SKE workload but will also receive a smaller bursary.
