Institute of Physics - Physics Teacher Training Scholarships

The Institute of Physics (IOP) is the professional body and learned society for physics in the UK and Ireland. It seeks to raise public awareness and understanding of physics, inspire people to develop their knowledge, understanding and enjoyment of physics and support the development of a diverse and inclusive physics community. As a charity, it has a mission to ensure that physics delivers on its exceptional potential to benefit society.

Could you use your physics knowledge to change the world for the better? Are you ready to inspire future generations of physicists with your passion for physics?

An Institute of Physics (IOP) teacher training scholarship could help you start an exciting new career as a physics teacher. We are awarding 175 scholarships for 2025-2026, giving you the support you need to succeed and stand out.

With an IOP scholarship, you receive:

•    Support to develop your physics teaching skills including Continuing Professional Development (CPD) workshops and online events as well as any face-to-face events taking place throughout the year, as well as access to a skilled mentor.
•    Online networking opportunities, and occasionally face-to-face events with your fellow scholars
•    Free IOP membership throughout your teacher training year. This includes full access to our in-house magazine Physics World, invitations to local branch meetings, and free journal downloads.

The scholarships are funded by the Department for Education in partnership with The Institute of Physics.

Hear what our previous IOP Scholars have to say

“The Continuing Professional Development (CPD) sessions have been incredibly helpful, giving useful hints and tips to help students and also providing interesting new ways to teach things.” - Helen, IOP Scholar

“The main advantage [of the scholarship] is all of the professional development opportunities, which have given me the chance to fully engage with physics teaching at this crucial time of my career” - Aiden, IOP Scholar

“What has really helped me in my training year is growing my awareness of the fantastic resources the IOP have to offer teachers.” - Daniel, IOP Scholar

To become an IOP Scholar, you need to secure a place on a non-salaried teacher training course in England by September 2025

Qualification and experience requirements

•    You will need a physics or related degree, and a passion for the subject with the ability to communicate clearly and inspire others.
•    To apply for a scholarship you must have an excellent academic record featuring a UK physics or related honours degree that can be a first or 2:1 at undergraduate level OR a master’s OR a PhD (proven or predicted). In exceptional circumstances, applicants with a 2:2 and significant relevant experience will be considered.
•    A physics A-level or equivalent (grade C or above) is desirable.
•    For degrees awarded in countries outside the UK, you will need to upload a statement of comparability from UK ENIC.