Skills tests
Once you have been accepted onto our course, you will need to pass a literacy and numeracy skills test.
What are the skills tests?
The professional skills tests, for prospective teachers, assess the core skills that teachers need to fulfil their professional role in schools, rather than the subject knowledge needed for teaching. This is to ensure all teachers are competent in numeracy and literacy, regardless of their specialism.
All current and prospective trainee teachers must pass the skills tests in numeracy and literacy before they begin the SCITT course. Passing of the skills tests is also essential for trainee teachers to be recommended for the award of qualified teacher status (QTS).
How to prepare for the skills tests?
There’s plenty of support available online to prepare you for the tests. Please use the links below.
Following your acceptance of a place with us, we can offer you free coaching for both numeracy and literacy skills test if you would like it. Please contact enquiries@northeastscitt.co.uk to arrange this.
How to book your skills tests?
You can have unlimited attempts to pass the tests but only your first three attempts are free of charge. Any attempts after this will need to be paid for.
You can book the test before submitting your teacher training application, but you’ll need to have submitted your application by the time you sit your tests.
On the day of the test...
You will need to arrive at least 20 minutes before your test start time.
You will need to take two forms of identification with you and proof of your teacher training application. Click here for more details.
Special arrangements
If English isn’t your first language or you have different needs to other candidates – such as a hearing or visual impairment, a physical disability, or dyslexia – you can ask for special arrangements to be made or additional time in your tests. You’ll need to make your request in advance and ensure you supply any stipulated evidence to prove you require special arrangements. Find out more here.