Discover the best UK universities for Teacher Training in 2026. Find courses that combine expert teaching, practical experience, and strong graduate outcomes.
Best Universities for Teacher Training: Unifresher Student Rankings 2026
The top universities earn Gold, Silver, and Bronze badges based on student satisfaction, graduate employability, teaching quality, and value for money. For full details, see our Ranking Methodology below.
| Rank | University | Academic | Social |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Gold | University of Birmingham | 91 | 80 |
| 2 Silver | University of Manchester | 89 | 77 |
| 3 Bronze | University of Nottingham | 88 | 75 |
| 4 | University of Glasgow | 87 | 72 |
| 5 | University of Leeds | 86 | 73 |
| 6 | University of Exeter | 85 | 74 |
| 7 | University of Southampton | 84 | 70 |
| 8 | University of East Anglia | 83 | 68 |
| 9 | University of Sheffield | 82 | 69 |
| 10 | University of Warwick | 81 | 70 |
1. University of Birmingham Gold
2. University of Manchester Silver
3. University of Nottingham Bronze
4. University of Glasgow
5. University of Leeds
6. University of Exeter
7. University of Southampton
8. University of East Anglia
9. University of Sheffield
10. University of Warwick
How We Ranked These Universities
Our Teacher Training rankings combine trusted academic data with student lifestyle factors to reflect what really matters to students.
- Academic (40%): Graduate employability, teaching quality, research output, entry standards
- Social & Lifestyle (60%): Cost of living, nightlife, cost of a pint and Uber, crime rate, student satisfaction
- Data Sources: HESA, NSS, REF, UCAS, WhatUni, and Unifresher’s student surveys
- Weighting: Scores out of 100; ties broken by academic score.
Top-Ranked Teacher Training Universities Explained
University of Birmingham
Known for its excellent school partnerships and high graduate employability.
University of Exeter
Offers comprehensive training with a focus on inclusivity and wellbeing.
University of York
Strong emphasis on research-led teaching and hands-on classroom experience.
University of Nottingham
Reputed for supportive tutors and diverse placement opportunities.
Durham University
Balances academic rigor with practical teaching skills development.
Career Prospects After a Teacher Training Degree
Graduates typically become qualified teachers across primary and secondary education. Related courses include Primary Education and Education.
Teacher Training Course Requirements & Entry Standards
Entry generally requires strong A-levels or equivalent qualifications, often including English and Maths. UCAS points vary but usually start around 112.
Cheapest Cities to Study Teacher Training in the UK
Cities like Birmingham, Nottingham, and Exeter offer good value for living and strong education communities.
Best Teacher Training Unis for Nightlife & Social Life
Nottingham and Birmingham stand out for active student unions and social events.
Student Wellbeing, Mental Health & Study Support
Top universities provide excellent pastoral care and mental health resources to support trainee teachers.
Not Sure About Teacher Training? Consider These Alternatives
Explore Primary Education, Education, or Early Childhood Studies.
Summary: Which Teacher Training Uni is Right for You?
Look for universities with strong school links, supportive tutors, and a balanced academic and practical approach.
FAQs on the Best UK Universities for Teacher Training
Top UK universities for Teacher Training include University of Cambridge, University College London, and University of Birmingham, all known for excellent practical experience and student satisfaction.
The University of Cambridge often ranks highest due to its rigorous academic standards and outstanding teaching placements.
Absolutely, it leads to a rewarding career with strong job prospects, especially given the UK’s demand for qualified teachers across many subjects.
Requirements vary, but strong GCSEs and A-levels in your chosen teaching subject are essential. Some courses also value experience working with children.
Graduates typically become qualified teachers in primary or secondary schools, and can also pursue roles in education support and leadership.
Yes, especially in STEM subjects and primary education. The UK continually seeks qualified teachers to meet growing educational needs.
Starting salaries usually range from £28,000 to £32,000, increasing with experience and additional responsibilities.
Balancing academic study with practical placements can be challenging, but it provides invaluable hands-on experience.
Most graduates work in UK primary and secondary schools, with some moving into education consultancy or leadership roles.
Yes, it is highly respected and essential for a teaching career, especially from universities with strong training reputations.
Unifresher Team
Led by our editors and co-founder, we apply student-first principles and editorial rigour to shape each ranking.
Student Writers
Over 20 student writers and contributors from across UK universities help define what really matters to students.
Expert Panel
We bring in specialists from sustainability founders to employability coaches to help shape categories with depth and credibility.
Our judging combines real student input with expert guidance. Here’s how:
- Public nominations: Through our homepage form, with responses from our student users.
- Social polls: Shared on our Instagram and TikTok channels (20,000+ followers).
- Student panel: 20+ student contributors guide how each category reflects real priorities.
- Editorial team: Our founder and senior editors bring experience in youth-focused media and ranking design.
- Expert advisors: Each award features insight from a relevant industry or academic figure.
This ensures each ranking is transparent, meaningful, and powered by those it’s meant to serve: students.
✅ Why You Can Trust This Ranking
- Data-backed: Official sources: HESA, NSS, REF, UCAS
- Student-led: Over 1,000 UK students surveyed
- Balanced scoring: 40% academic + 60% student life
- Independently verified: No sponsored placements, ever
- Reviewed by editors: All results checked for fairness & accuracy
- Updated for 2025: Last checked
