Train to Teach with Co-op Academies Trust
A Message from the Director of Our Professional Development Institute.
Start your teaching journey with Co-op Academies Trust — from Internship to Headship.
Join a supportive, values-driven community and kickstart your career with the Professional Development Institute, where we offer practical, hands-on training both in and beyond the classroom. Our goal is simple: to help every teacher make a difference, develop their expertise, and progress in their career.
Our Trust is a vibrant family of colleagues working together with a shared purpose — to help young people thrive and to transform the communities we serve.
If that sounds like the kind of community you want to be part of, we’d love you to join us.
Andy Gibson
Director, Co-op Academies Trust Professional Development Institute
Co-op Academies Trust Initial Teacher Training (ITT) offers an ambitious, school-centred route into teaching. You are part of school life from day one and supported by a carefully designed curriculum that launches a long-term career, not just a one-year course.
It’s not just about what we do, it’s about how we do it.
Train to teach with us
We’re proud to be part of the Co-op a successful, ethical organisation that believes in people helping people. Sharing the "Ways of Being Co-op": Be yourself, Do what matters most, Show you care, and Succeed together.
The Trust is values-driven, These values underpin a commitment to equity, diversity, inclusion, and wellbeing. Putting pupils, colleagues and communities first.
Immerse yourself in school life
You'll be based in one of our academies, learning to teach in real classrooms guided by expert mentors and subject specialists. The year combines rich school‑based experience with centre‑based training, university teaching, and structured reflection to connect theory and practice.
Your development matters
We care about your growth, not just while you’re training, but throughout your whole career. You’ll take part in high-quality, practical training led by skilled professionals who are passionate about teaching and learning — and about helping you be your best.
Qualifications that open doors
You’ll gain Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) and have the option to work towards a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) with 60 Master’s credits - giving you a strong foundation for the future.
Learning for life
Professional development doesn’t end when you qualify. At Co-op Academies Trust, we’re committed to lifelong learning through continuous, high-quality CPD that’s purposeful, engaging, and tailored to every stage of your career.
If you’re looking for a supportive place to learn, grow, and make a genuine difference, you’ll find your home with us.
What you’ll get with us
A guaranteed placement
We’ll secure you a teaching placement in one of our Trust academies in Greater Manchester, West Yorkshire, Merseyside, Stoke and Staffordshire — carefully matched to your phase, subject, and location preferences.
Experience across age groups
We offer training routes in Early Years, Primary, and Secondary education with bespoke routes
A Chromebook for your training
We’ll provide you with a Google Chromebook to support your learning throughout the course and it’s yours to keep when you finish.
Support you can rely on
You’ll be supported every step of the way by experienced mentors, classroom teachers and subject specialist who want to see you succeed.
Train close to home
Our academies are based across the North of England, including Greater Manchester, West Yorkshire, Merseyside and Staffordshire, working with diverse communities.
View our courses
Explore our range of Co-op teacher training courses and find the route that’s right for you — from Early Years and Primary to Secondary. Your career in the classroom begins here.
If you're driven by meaningful work and want to be part of a vibrant, values-led organisation, come and join us!