Rise in STEM trainee teacher recruitment

New figures show record numbers of people are training to teach in vital subjects including physics and computing.

The latest Initial Teacher Training (ITT) census data shows strong growth in trainee numbers, with over 32,000 tindividuals choosing teaching as a career choice - a rise of 11% on last year.

The government has also said it is exceeding its target on recruitment of STEM teachers for the first time since it was introduced in 2019.

Physics trainees are up 36%, computing up 44%, and maths up by 16%. In total, the data shows an increase of 21% in STEM subjects - exceeding the trainee target - with 6,700 new entrants.

The figures provide a snapshot of new entrants to teacher training courses in England for the 2025/26 training year. Most of those completing their training will be qualified to enter classrooms from September 2026.