Teacher Training
The development of the best workforce starts with the recruitment of the very best trainee teachers
Video - Why I Teach
Redhill History teacher, Jake Athorn, explains why he decided to become a teacher, the opportunities for progression and what advice he would give to anyone considering a career in teaching.
What is school based teacher training?
For those considering teaching as a profession, there are several routes into teaching and there is a wealth of information on the DfE ‘Get into Teaching’ website: https://getintoteaching.education.gov.uk/
School based training options are ideal for graduates who want immediate hands-on experience in the classroom, alongside the in-depth focus on theory and research. On a school-based route, trainee’s typically complete two school placements with teaching time building steadily over the academic year. The majority of the trainee’s time is spent working alongside experienced practitioners who mentor, guide and support as needed.
Trainees can train in primary or secondary settings and most school based programmes will lead to both Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) and a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE). Often the PGCE can be achieved with additional Masters level credits, depending on the individual course, and providers work alongside a local university to deliver this aspect of the training programme.
The benefits of school based training include:
- The opportunity to build meaningful relationships with staff and students over the course of the year.
- The collegiality established by working together with fellow school based trainees.
- The access to a wealth of support from the lead school / SCITT team.
- The extensive practical experience which prepares trainees thoroughly for the start of a career in teaching.
What is a SCITT?
SCITT stands for School Centred Initial Teacher Training. On this training route all training beyond the classroom is delivered by classroom practitioners and experts centrally by the SCITT, rather than at University (which is typical of a PGCE programme).
Trainees complete the course to gain the same qualifications as a core PGCE course, but spend considerably more time in the classroom.
What is School Direct?
School Direct training is very similar to SCITT training, the only major difference being that the taught element of the programme is usually delivered centrally by the accrediting University with the lead school providing some additional input.
Which route is best?
The choice of training route for schools and for trainees is a very personal decision and will take into consideration many factors. Previous experience and current circumstances will all play an important role. We would advise anyone considering training to teach or any schools considering offering a placement to speak to their local providers and to the Hub. We have a lot of expertise in teacher training at Redhill Teaching Hub and we will be very happy to talk to individuals or schools interested in teacher training or connect to their local training providers. Please contact us.
Transition to Teach - for career changers 
Join the growing number of successful professionals retraining as teachers and use your extraordinary skills and knowledge to inspire the next generation.
Transition to Teach offers bespoke support to help you make the career change, offering guidance throughout your training year and first year of teaching in the classroom. T2T will support you to successfully make the transition and join the network of inspiring, professional teachers that strive for excellence in education for all.