School Onsite Training Programme

The School Onsite Training Programme provides funding for places in school-based Initial Teacher Education (ITE) programmes where student teacher are hosted in schools 3 days a week while studying remotely towards their teaching qualification. 

In May 2025, the Minister of Education announced a major investment in teacher supply. Investment through Budget 25 will deliver 530 additional School Onsite Training Programme (SOTP) places (over 4 years) for aspiring teachers to train in the classroom 

In 2025 242 funded School Onsite Training Programme places were available to primary and secondary student teachers in schools across New Zealand. In 2026 465 places will be available. 

Purpose of the programme

We want student teachers to feel well prepared as they finish their initial teacher education and commence their teaching careers.

The School Onsite Training Programme allows schools and kura to identify people in their communities with the potential to be great teachers, and supports them to become qualified.

School-based initial teacher education offers student teachers the opportunity to experience the workings of the full school year while completing their initial teacher education through online study models. The increased practical experience supports student teachers to feel confident and prepared when they start their first year as a provisionally certificated teacher.

About the 2025 programme

Thank you to all the schools and ITE providers who submitted applications and Expressions of Interest for the 2025 School Onsite Training Programme. Applications are now closed for the 2025 intake. 

Schools interested in joining in 2026

We will grow the programme for the 2026 school year with additional providers and schools having the opportunity to join the programme.

We are still confirming the criteria matrix for place allocation for the 2026 school year. Once this is confirmed we will communicate what this is and how to apply.