If you’re thinking about teacher training in 2014, you’ll need to apply through UCAS for all training programmes apart from Teach First. We’ve just heard that applications will open on 21 November (new date) on the UCAS website, but there are some things you can be doing in the meantime…

• Think about your reasons for applying and make a start on your personal statement.  People reading your application will want evidence that you are motivated and understand the challenges and rewards of a teaching career; you’ll need to reflect on your work experience in schools (YSIS or similar) and in other settings with children and young people (Brownies, sports clubs, youth clubs etc) – what have you learned about yourself, and about teaching, and the contribution you could make to a school?
• Decide on two referees and make sure they are happy to give you a reference.  You’ll need one academic referee, and the other can be from any work experience you have done (if in a school, this will need to be the headteacher).  Make sure you have their contact details ready for the application form.
• Attend the Careers sessions on Teacher training applications and Teacher training interviews in weeks 4 and 7 this term.
• Practise so that you are ready to take the Professional Skills test when that is available. Careers have books and online resources to help you.
• Keep up to date with issues in education and teaching in the media – look at Guardian Education and the Times Educational Supplement (both available in Careers), and TV programmes such as Educating Yorkshire.

Then when the UCAS course search and application process goes live, you’ll be ready to complete a great application for teacher training.