Train to Teach with BDMAT – A Pathway with Purpose
Teaching is a job like no other. You will educate, inspire and guide. You’ll witness the spark of curiosity in a child’s eyes as they grasp a new idea for the first time. You’ll help shape futures, build confidence, and make a lasting difference.
At the Birmingham Diocese Multi-Academy Trust (BDMAT), we offer a unique opportunity to train as a teacher within our family of 19 Church of England schools – 18 primaries and 1 secondary – spread across Birmingham, Solihull and Warwickshire. From small rural schools nestled among rolling green hills and lush countryside, to vibrant inner-city schools alive with the energy of urban life, our settings are as diverse as the children we serve.
Our school-based teacher training route offers a powerful alternative to the traditional university PGCE. You’ll gain hands-on experience from day one, learning alongside experienced educators in real classrooms. Our programme equips you with the knowledge, skills and confidence to transform children’s lives – and your own.
While the journey may feel daunting, you’ll never walk it alone. You’ll receive personalised support from your tutor and your in-school mentor. And as a BDMAT trainee, you’ll be part of a wider network of peers and early career teachers across all 19 BDMAT schools, giving you a strong foundation of encouragement, collaboration and shared wisdom.
Training Partners: Ark and John Taylor
Our 19 schools are spread across a wide geographical space – from south Birmingham to north Warwickshire, and central Birmingham and Solihull in between. With this in mind, we have proudly partnered with two different training providers – Ark and John Taylor.
Ark – Ark Teacher Training is an “Outstanding” (Ofsted) school-based teacher training program, designed to help graduates and career changers become qualified teachers. Ark deliver the teacher training programme that covers all BDMAT Birmingham and Solihull schools.
John Taylor – The John Taylor SCITT is an accredited school-centred initial teacher training provider based at John Taylor High School near Burton-on-Trent, part of the John Taylor Multi-Academy Trust. Since 2015, they have provided primary and secondary teacher training routes, focusing on high-quality, hands-on school experience with weekly face-to-face training, culminating in QTS. John Taylor deliver the teacher training programme for all of the north Warwickshire BDMAT schools.
Apply Today
If you’re thinking about training to be a teacher, we’d love to hear from you. Book a call with us to explore your options and ask any questions you may have by emailing [email protected] .
Train with a Birmingham or Solihull School
Our Birmingham teacher training is delivered in partnership with Ark Teacher Training. You can apply either via our online expression of interest form or through DfE Apply.
Train with a North Warwickshire School
Our north Warwickshire schools are located in and around Atherstone, including the communities of Grendon, Austery, Polesworth and Coleshill.
Our North Warwickshire teacher training is delivered in partnership with John Taylor SCITT. You can apply either via our online expression of interest form or through DfE Apply.
Two Routes to Train as a Teacher with BDMAT
Non-Salaried Route
This is our most popular option, especially among recent graduates. Like a PGCE, this route is funded by the trainee through student loans or government bursaries, but with a key difference: you’ll be based in a BDMAT school for the entire year, receiving high-quality training, coaching and support from both Ark Teacher Training and BDMAT. If you’re passionate about teaching but not eligible for a salaried role, this route offers generous financial support and the flexibility to focus fully on your development.
Salaried Route
The School Direct (salaried) route is designed for those who have full-time work experience since graduating. It’s a highly competitive option that allows you to earn a salary while you train, with your school covering the £9,535 tuition fee. Salaried roles are available in some of our schools, depending on need and availability.
Whichever route you choose, you’ll benefit from BDMAT’s commitment to nurturing future teachers—and you’ll step into your first teaching role with confidence, knowing your future is secure.
FAQ
What makes your BDMAT Training programme stand out?
When you train to teach with BDMAT in partnership with either Ark Teacher Training or John Taylor SCITT, you’ll be in the classroom, making a difference from your very first day. We tailor our training programme to suit your needs, offering exceptional support from our network of tutors, teachers and trainees throughout every stage of your training.
What will you do to support my wellbeing?
Completing teacher training can be as challenging as it is rewarding, which is why trainee wellbeing is our number one priority. Throughout the course, you will be part of a team supported by your BDMAT mentor training tutor, training lead, and coach. They will work together to monitor your progress weekly.
What happens at Summer School (Ark only)?
Summer School is a unique blend of educational theory and practical skills, designed to prepare you for your first day in the classroom. This two-week journey not only allows you to meet your peers but also immerses you in the dynamic world of education, providing you with a one-of-a-kind learning experience.
Can you help me develop my planning skills?
Absolutely. Throughout your training year, you’ll work with your BDMAT mentor and experienced teachers to develop these skills.
I’m concerned about managing classroom behaviour. Can you help?
We can. We’ll equip you with the tools to manage behaviour, build relationships and develop your classroom authority.
How many schools will I train in?
You’ll be based in one school for the majority of your training year, but you’ll also spend a period of time training at a second BDMAT school as part of your alternative placement.
Join us at BDMAT – where faith, community and education come together to shape the teachers of tomorrow.
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