Train to teach with the Brighton and Hove Sussex Schools and College Alliance with Sussex University (BHSSCA)

The Sixth Form PGCE will involve the student teacher doing their first placement in a College (from the last week of September to February half term), and the second placement will be in a KS4 school setting (February to June). The first three weeks, students will be offered an induction at the University of Sussex. Afterwards, students will be spending four days in their placement and one day at the University.

This course allows you to apply directly to your chosen College, and this means the College can select its own student teachers. As with the regular PGCE courses, you will be introduced gradually to teaching by your mentor who will help you to build up your teaching time over the course of the year as you grow in confidence and competence.

The course is completed in June 2028 when student teachers following the programme will be recommended for QTS awarding. Student teachers completing the Sixth Form PGCE will be awarded 60 master’s level credits towards a part-time MA in Education, should you wish to do so.

How to Apply

Applications open each year via DfE Apply; you can access this portal by clicking HERE.

When applying, you will be asked to select your chosen provider. The DfE Apply portal also includes a separate section to provide details of any school and work experience. You should provide your full work history. Remember, your personal statement is the core of the application, so it is important to take the time and effort on this section.

The application window for September 2027 will open around the 6th October 2026 and will close on the 29th June 2027 or when courses are full.

The BHSSCA Lead Partner is Varndean Sixth Form College. Feel free to ask questions about the program by contacting leadpartner@varndean.ac.uk

As a BHSSCA student teacher, you’ll benefit from our strong partnership with Sussex University, which offers a research-led, high-quality academic foundation to your training. This relationship ensures you receive the best of both worlds: university-based theory and on-the-ground practice. For more information about the courses, please visit the Sussex University site: Teacher Training at Sussex

If you have any further questions about the placement at BHASVIC, please contact: d.mcdonnell@BHASVIC.ac.uk