Hey future educators! Are you passionate about shaping young minds and ready to make a real difference in crucial subjects? Then you’ll want to hear about the **Initial Teacher Education (ITE) Bursary Scheme 2026** – a fantastic opportunity designed to support your journey into teaching!
This bursary is specifically for students looking to teach in post-primary schools in Northern Ireland, targeting subjects where skilled teachers are most needed. It’s all about helping you become a high-calibre teacher without the financial stress, setting you up for a rewarding career!
Who Can Apply?
This exciting pilot bursary programme, announced by Education Minister Paul Givan, is looking for bright, high-calibre graduates and undergraduates who are keen to pursue teaching careers in specific, high-demand subjects. If you’re planning to teach any of these subjects at a post-primary level, this could be your chance:
- Mathematics
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Computing
- Technology and Design
- Irish-Medium Education
The aim is to attract talented individuals and also remove financial barriers for those returning to study, including mature students and those with caring responsibilities, helping build a more diverse teaching workforce.
What Does It Cover?
This bursary scheme offers significant financial support to help you focus on your studies and future career:
- For Post-graduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) students in the selected subjects: You could receive a combined bursary of **£17,000 per annum**. This generous package includes £1,000 per month to help with living costs, plus full coverage of your tuition fees!
- For Bachelor of Education (BEd) undergraduate students: You’ll receive a tuition fee bursary that covers the full cost of fees for each of the four years of your study. That’s right, your tuition fees sorted for your entire degree!
This strategic investment is designed to safeguard STEM education and ensure young people have access to a full range of learning opportunities.
How to Apply?
Great news! The Initial Teacher Education Bursary Scheme is set to start from September 2026. The Department of Education in Northern Ireland will be working closely with Higher Education Institutions and the Department for the Economy to develop and roll out the scheme.
While the specific application details aren’t out yet, they will be published on the Department’s official website in the coming months. Keep an eye out for updates as the official application link becomes available!
If you’re interested in applying, ensure you meet the subject requirements and keep checking the Northern Ireland Department of Education’s website for the official application portal and full guidelines.
If this sounds like the perfect bursary to kickstart your teaching career, don’t wait — stay informed and prepare for your application! And while you’re here, why not explore more amazing bursaries on Bursaries Room to find other funding opportunities?
