The Margaret McMillan School of Education at Bradford College has unveiled a new range of Initial Teacher Training (ITT) programmes, marking the latest milestone in its 70-year history of developing outstanding educators.
The new provision builds on the School’s long-standing reputation for high-quality teacher education and its commitment to addressing the growing demand for skilled teachers in primary, secondary, further and higher education settings.
From September 2026, Bradford College is approved to independently deliver Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) as part of its degree offer, following the successfully completion of a new Department for Education targeted accreditation process.
Kerry Lewis, Head of School for ITT and Education at Bradford College, said:
“As a long-standing provider of excellent teacher training, we are delighted that these new programmes will help to grow the number of vital high-quality teachers in our community and expand the progression routes we offer.
“We attract a diverse cohort of students, aspiring to gain a profession despite facing sometimes challenging circumstances. These qualifications genuinely transform lives, so it’s wonderful that this enhanced curriculum will fill even more critical vacancies in the education sector and at our network of partner schools.”
This positive news follows the Government’s recent launch of the Lifelong Learning Entitlement (LLE) – a new student finance system in England which gives eligible learners access to a funding entitlement worth up to four years of post-18 study (currently around £39,160 in tuition fee support).
The LLE can be used flexibly for full-time or part-time study of qualifications at levels 4 to 6, including degrees and higher technical qualifications, meaning prospective teachers can also benefit from this support. This includes those studying the Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) for initial teacher training (ITT) that is already funded through the higher education student finance system.
Kerry continued:
“More than 70 years after the establishment of the original Margaret McMillan Memorial College, we remain as committed as ever to equipping aspiring teachers with the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed to inspire future generations. Between our new provision and the latest changes in government funding, this really is a great time to pursue teaching, either as a first or later career option.”
The new ITT programmes mark an exciting chapter for the Margaret McMillan School of Education, which has been transforming lives through education since 1952. Named after pioneering education reformer Margaret McMillan, the School continues her legacy of championing social justice and improving opportunities for learners in Bradford and beyond.
From mentorship programmes to professional development opportunities, students have access to the resources and guidance they need to thrive on their teaching journey. A recently qualified teacher from the School at Bradford College said:
“I feel immensely blessed to have been surrounded by individuals who genuinely care about their trainees and want to see them succeed. Knowing that people are willing to support me as I work towards achieving a dream that I have held for so many years is something I will never forget, and I am incredibly thankful to every member of the team who has played a part in helping me.”
Training programmes at the Margaret McMillan School of Education open doors to a variety of career paths in teaching, administration, learning support, and more across schools and higher education settings. Qualifications for teaching in further education also include Certificates in Education, Postgraduate Diplomas, and Additional Diplomas.
Find out more about the full range of education and teaching courses on offer at Bradford College.
