Tougher tests to become a teacher Those who fail one, or both, of the tests, will be given only two more chances to pass. Schools Minister Nick Gibb said: "International studies show that rigorous selection of trainee teachers is key to raising the quality and standing of the teaching profession. It helps ensure trainees are committed to becoming teachers. Strengthened trainee tests and an end to constant re-sits will mean parents can be confident that all teachers have the basic skills needed. The review will be led by Sally Coates, principal of Burlington Danes Academy in west London, and will report back to ministers by June, to allow the new tests to be introduced next year. Official figures show that rising numbers of trainee teachers are passing the literacy test at the first attempt. In 2010/11 30,474 trainees passed on the first go, compared to 28,864 in 2003/04. And just 397 took three or more attempts to pass the literacy test in 2010/11, compared to 2,508 in 2005/06 - the first year that figures are available. For the numeracy test, 29,378 passed on the first attempt in 2010/11, compared to 27,341 in 2003/04. Some 3,492 people took three or more attempts to pass the numeracy test in 2010/11, compared to 3,160 in 2005/06.