The programme is principally aimed at classroom teachers in nursery, primary and secondary schools (who teach more than 50% of the time), with at least two-year post-QTS experience. Supply teachers who fulfil the above criteria, and who have been in post for at least one term, may also be considered, subject to relevant justification from their headteacher. Similarly, teaching assistants may also be considered.

All participants should note the expectation of a commitment of their own time to the preparation and follow-up to their TIPD study visit. The visits themselves are intense and tiring experiences, in most cases occupying the whole of a half-term break and participants will also be required to write a group report, four weeks after the visit. Participants must also be able to show that their study visit findings will be widely disseminated beyond their own school and LA.

Teachers that wish to access this component of the TIPD programme will not be eligible for other strands, eg TIPD school-determined study visits, during the same financial year.