If you’ve ever imagined turning your love for physics into a career that actually shapes futures, this is your moment. The IOP Teacher Training Scholarships for 2026 are officially opening, offering one of the most generous, fully supported pathways into teaching physics in England.
With a tax-free award worth £31,000, expert mentoring, and long-term professional support, this opportunity is designed to remove financial barriers and fast-track talented physicists into classrooms where they’re needed most.
What This Scholarship Offers?
This is not just funding—it’s a full professional launchpad into teaching physics, backed by the Institute of Physics.
- £31,000 tax-free scholarship for your teacher training year
- 175 scholarships available for the September 2026 intake
- Ongoing subject-specific mentoring, including 1:1 and regional support
- Access to online and in-person CPD workshops to strengthen teaching skills
- IOP membership benefits during training, including Physics World magazine and journal access
- Extra support for those teaching in low socioeconomic areas
- A strong peer community of scholars to collaborate, share ideas, and grow together.
Who This Opportunity Is Valid For?
The programme is intentionally broad and inclusive, welcoming applicants from all career stages who are ready to inspire the next generation of physicists.
- Applicants with a UK or equivalent physics (or closely related) degree: First class or 2:1 preferred
- Master’s or PhD holders (completed or predicted) are eligible
- In exceptional cases, a 2:2 with significant relevant experience may be considered
- Degree qualifications must be completed by September 2026
- Training must be on a non-salaried physics specialist teacher training route in England, leading to Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)
- Overseas degree holders must provide a UK ENIC statement of comparability.
Apply: https://www.iop.org/about/support-grants/iop-teacher-training-scholarships
Important Deadline to Remember
Applications for the IOP Teacher Training Scholarships for courses starting in September 2026 open on 1 January 2026, and the next key deadline to apply is Thursday, 22 January 2026.