Accredited by York St John University via Polaris Teaching School Alliance

Inspiring Teachers. Transforming Lives. Rooted in Faith.

Polaris is a well-established Catholic Teaching Alliance, that is renowned for delivering a high-quality, school centred, PGCE primary programme in partnership with York St John University.  We offer expert training in a nurturing environment. 

We offer specialist training, real classroom experiences, and unmatched support, all in a nurturing environment rooted in our Catholic values. Start your journey as a confident, impactful teacher and build a career that makes a difference. 

Why NPCAT + Polaris + York St John?

A School-Based Model from Day One

Your journey begins in the classroom from week one, learning directly alongside supportive practitioners in both Catholic and non-Catholic primary schools across a wide geographical area, including Ryedale, York City, Scarborough, East Riding, Thirsk, and surrounding areas. We pride ourselves on the breadth of placements available and our ability to match trainees with high-quality schools close to home.

Deeply Rooted in Catholic Values

Polaris nurtures educators grounded in compassion, service, resilience, collaboration, and integrity. As part of a faith-driven community, you’ll be supported in cultivating a spirit of respect, accountability, and continuous growth in all you do.

Strong Academic Foundation

Your training is supported by expert-led academic sessions at York St John, seamlessly blending theory with practice with Polaris to ensure your professional growth is reflective, rigorous, and research-driven.

Tailored, Local Placements

You’ll be placed in outstanding schools across York, Ryedale, North and East Yorkshire, and surrounding areas—ensuring your training is local, accessible, and aligned to your personal needs

Programme Overview: What to Expect

Programme Duration & Qualification

  • September to June (full-time)
  • Leads to Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) and a PGCE from York St John University

Classroom Experience

  • Step into classrooms immediately, gradually progressing to up to 80% of a full teaching timetable by year’s end.

Placement Structure

  • Two contrasting school placements across the region, drawing from our large pool of schools providing rich, diverse learning environments for all our student teachers.

Academic & Professional Support

  • You will join a support network including:
    • Polaris ITT Lead 
    • Lead Mentors
    • School-based mentors and experienced teachers
    • Academic tutors from York St John
  • Theory and practice are interwoven through university and in-school training sessions focused on SEND, adaptive teaching, leadership, and pedagogy.

A Lasting Community of Support

Your relationship with Polaris and NPCAT doesn’t end at QTS you’ll continue to receive guidance through your ECT (Early Career Teacher) years and beyond.

What Trainees Say

“Polaris fully prepares you to enter the world of teaching. The training year is carefully crafted to track, develop and challenge you. But most importantly, what Polaris does best is support you. My mentor was incredible, and I could not have felt more supported by the entire team”

A reflection of the depth and diversity of school-based experiences offered.

Entry Requirements

  • A bachelor’s degree (honours or equivalent)
  • GCSEs at Grade 4 (C) or above in English, Maths, and Science (equivalency tests available via York St John if needed)
  • Interviews to assess your suitability and communication abilities
  • Enhanced DBS checks, safeguarding and health clearances in line with statutory requirements

Fees & Funding

  • Student finance is available for tuition and living costs
  • Bursaries/scholarships may be available for certain subjects or trainees—especially in secondary routes

Application Process

  • Applications open via the DfE Apply Service, typically from October each year
  • Early application is strongly encouraged due to course demand

Ready to Start Your Teaching Journey?

If you’re committed to becoming an inspiring educator grounded in faith and excellence and supported by a network that truly cares, this is your pathway.

Contact Information:
Primary Lead Email: [email protected]
To stay informed, complete our Expression of Interest Form

Train to Teach with Polaris and York St John – where values, community, and excellence meet in every lesson.

Rooted in Catholic values and a nurturing ethos, you receive expert mentoring and training, gaining practical classroom experience and developing the skills, knowledge, and confidence to excel as a teacher.

Step confidently into teaching combining academic sessions with in-school training and enrichment experiences. Guided by experts and nurtured in a supportive environment, you gain practical experience, grow in confidence, and develop the skills to inspire and shape young lives.