Subject knowledge enhancement (SKE) courses help you gain the depth of knowledge you'll need to teach your chosen subject.

These courses are aimed at those who have already been offered a place on a postgraduate initial teacher training (ITT) course, subject to completion of an SKE course. ITT providers make the final decision on relevant subject knowledge. If your provider feels that you have the right qualities to become a teacher but you need to up your subject knowledge before you start training, they will talk you through the range of SKE courses that are available.

What SKE courses are available?

There are currently courses available for the following secondary-phase subjects:

How long do the courses take?

Most SKE courses comprise the equivalent of two weeks' study, but some may be longer depending on whether you need a quick top-up or some in-depth knowledge. Depending on the individual course, you can take this all in one go as a full-time course, or spread over a longer period part-time, possibly through evening drop in sessions or weekend courses.

Where and when are the courses available?

SKE courses are available all over England. You can search for an SKE course online

Applying for SKE courses

You should first apply to an ITT course. If the course provider considers you to have the attributes to make a good teacher, they may offer you a conditional ITT place and refer you to the SKE courses in your region.

If you are applying for a postgraduate certificate in education (PGCE), you can indicate on your application form that you are interested in doing an SKE course.

To find out more about a course you can:

  • call your local SKE course provider directly
  • speak to one of our Teaching Line consultants on 0800 389 2500

Upon your successful completion of one of these courses, you are expected to go straight into an ITT course leading to qualified teacher status (QTS).

Already achieved QTS, but need to boost your subject knowledge?

Post-ITT SKE courses are designed to increase the mathematics, chemistry, physics or modern languages knowledge of in-service and returning teachers.

Find out more about post-ITT SKE courses