Frequently asked questions

Eligibility

• What qualifications do I need?
  You will need to be a graduate (proven or predicted) with at least a 2(i) degree. If your degree classification is lower but you hold a PhD or Masters certificate you will also be eligible
• Do I need a physics degree?
  Not necessarily, you will be eligible if your degree contains sufficient physics content (examples include Engineering, Sports Science or Astronomy). Your chosen teacher trainer provider will decide if your degree is sufficient. You will also be eligible if you do a Subject Knowledge Enhancement (SKE) course first, providing it’s completed by September 2012
• I have a PhD, would I be suitable?
  Yes, applications are not restricted to just graduates of first degrees. We will be awarding scholarships to individuals from a variety of backgrounds and ages
• I graduated some time ago, does this matter?
  Not at all, your experiences since graduating could be very valuable to becoming a teacher
• I’m not due to graduate until later this year, can I still apply?
  Yes you can providing your predicted grade is a 2(i) or above
• Will the scholarships be available in 2013?
  Currently this is a one year pilot, and we hope that this will continue in future years but we cannot give any assurances at this time

Teacher Training

• What choices do I have for teacher training?
  We can only award you a scholarship if you undertake your teacher training in England and do a PGCE course or have a School Direct place
• Does the IOP arrange my teacher training course?
  No, the Scholarship will be awarded independently of your teacher training. You must apply for a physics teacher training place and receive an offer before starting in September 2012. You can apply for our Scholarship at any time in this process. ITT Providers have now opened applications for courses in 2012. Get a headstart and apply early
• Can I apply for other teacher training courses at the same time?
  You are free to apply for other teacher training routes but will only be permitted to accept an IOP Teacher Training Scholarship if you choose a PGCE or School Direct route
• Can I apply if I intend to do the Inspire PGCE?
  Yes
• Can I apply if I want to do a part-time PGCE course?
  Yes, the scholarship support you receive will be the same but your payments will be spread out throughout your PGCE

Scholarship Funding

• How much is the Scholarship worth?
  If you are successful you will receive a £20,000 tax-free scholarship which will be paid to you in monthly payments during your teacher training course. There is also considerable value in the additional benefits that you will receive.

Applying

• How do I apply?
  Take a look at our short film on how to apply. Your first step is to complete the online application form
• Is there an application deadline?
  Yes, there will be a series of deadlines for the year. The next deadline to submit your application is 6 June 2012
• I’m currently on a Subject Knowledge Enhancement course, should I apply now or wait until I’ve completed it?
  You can apply at any time but if you would prefer to wait until you have completed your SKE course then you can do so. You can always express your intention of applying by emailing us at teach@iop.org. Keep an eye on the deadline dates.
• What happens next?
  If you are successful at our online application stage you will be invited to attend an Assessment Day where you will participate in group activities, be tested on your physics knowledge and interviewed
• How and when will I know if I’m successful?
  If you are to be awarded with a scholarship you will be notified shortly after attending the Assessment Centre

If you have any further questions, email teach@iop.org.