Program Overview

Introduction to the Early Years Initial Teacher Training (EYITT) PGCE

The Early Years Initial Teacher Training (EYITT) PGCE is a graduate entry program designed for individuals who wish to work with children from 0-5 years old. This program leads to the award of Early Years Teacher Status (EYTS), which enables graduates to teach in all private, voluntary, and independent settings, as well as in free schools, academies, and independent schools.

Program Details

Study Mode

• Full-time

Tuition Fees

• UK students: £9,535 (2026/27)
• International students: Fees to be confirmed (2026/27)

Duration

• 1 academic year

Programme Starts

• September 2026

Applications Accepted

• Applicants who require a visa: 07 Oct 2025 – 09 Mar 2026
• Applicants who do not require a visa: 07 Oct 2025 – 31 Jul 2026

Skills and Support

This course provides students with the pedagogical theory and practical skills necessary to become an inspiring early years teacher. The program features a gradual immersion approach, allowing students to become increasingly familiar with their EYFS context and all elements of the teaching role. Students are supported by Setting Mentors and IOE Tutors to develop their practice and apply pedagogical ideas to their teaching.

Experience

Placements in different contexts enable students to experience teaching children of all ages in the EYFS (0-5 years) and reflect on the pedagogical priorities in different settings.

Entry Requirements

First Degree

• A minimum of a lower second-class UK Bachelor's degree or an overseas qualification of an equivalent standard.

A Levels

• No specific subject required.

GCSEs

• English Language, Science (one from Combined Science, Biology, Chemistry, or Physics), and Mathematics at grade C / 4 or above.

School Experience

• It is recommended that applicants gain some experience in an EYFS setting before enrolling on the EYITT PGCE.

Skills Tests

• Trainees will be assured against a set of fundamental Mathematics and English skills by the end of their teacher training.

About the Course

The EYITT program is designed to provide students with the knowledge, skills, and understanding necessary to meet all the Early Years Teachers' Standards and develop as reflective practitioners. The program includes a combination of taught sessions, workshops, independent study, and work-based learning.

Modules

Compulsory Modules

• Teaching and Learning and the EYFS Curriculum
• Developing Action-Based Research
• Professional Practice (EYITT)

School Placements

Students undertake placements that cover the full 0-5 age range and engage with the educational curriculum beyond the EYFS. This involves a minimum of 120 days of placements.

Fees and Funding

A Department for Education training grant is available to cover the full cost of tuition fees. This funding is provided to UCL automatically and does not need to be applied for.

Additional Costs

Students are responsible for covering the costs of travel to and from placements and travel costs for visits organized by the program. An enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check and an Occupational Health check are also required prior to beginning the course.

Employability

Graduates of the EYITT program are highly sought after throughout the EYFS sector and can lead learning in all private, voluntary, and independent settings. They can also work in free schools, academies, and independent schools.