Several previous studies have reviewed the literature surrounding the use of technology in teacher education. This literature review takes a specific focus as it addresses the use of social media in initial teacher education (ITE). It seeks to explore what constitutes effective use of social media in supporting the development of new teachers in all sectors of ITE, including primary, secondary, English language teaching and lifelong learning. The authors seek to develop and share a deeper understanding of the relationship between social media and the participation and collaboration of pre-service teachers in ITE. The findings of the review include issues surrounding community, pedagogy and design, and this synthesis provides a significant exploratory contribution to the development of effective teacher education and training across the UK curriculum.