Literacy and numeracy tests

All applicants to initial teacher training must demonstrate secure knowledge and skills in literacy and numeracy. In October 2019, the online Professional Skills Tests were withdrawn by the DfE and the responsibility for assessing an applicant’s literacy and numeracy skills now rests with the teacher training provider.

Following a conditional offer being made, candidates will be required to sit paper-based competency tests to assess their literacy and numeracy skills. These tests may take place at a partnership school in one of our hubs or at The OAKS at Keele University.

Each test will take approximately 30 minutes to complete. A candidate will have up to three attempts to secure a successful pass in these tests. If you require additional time or any other adjustments due to an educational or physical need, please let our staff know so that this can be arranged for you.

To prepare for the tests, you may wish to revise your literacy and numeracy skills. BBC Bitesize GCSE revision is a great place to start.