A great teacher changes the future every day. Especially for children who have had a tough start in life, a teacher can be the critical factor in their success. Our Teacher Training sets you on the path to becoming an excellent teacher, one who will inspire the next generation to succeed. 

Our Teacher Training prioritises your relationship with, and impact on, the pupils you teach and it allows you to do most of your training in one school. You can put your academic learning into practice in a structured, step-by-step way, with your mentor and peers, before taking it live in the classroom. Your dedicated mentor will be an experienced teacher who works in your school. They will provide one-to-one guidance and support throughout your training. This will allow you to develop and refine your teaching practice with an expert, trained in the latest evidence-based learning. Our one-school training approach also gives you the opportunity to build relationships with teachers, staff, and the wider school community.

Returning to Pakefield Primary School where I was once a pupil has been a truly special journey. After attending the school as a child, I later worked there as a teaching assistant, and I am now completing my teacher training in the same place. I have always wanted to become a teacher, and being able to achieve that dream in the school that helped shape me makes the experience even more meaningful. I am passionate about inspiring children, helping them grow in confidence, and creating the same positive learning experiences that I was fortunate to have.

My journey into teaching so far has been driven by several factors. One of which was growing up with a primary school teacher who showed such a great level of care and thoughtfulness towards myself and the other students in my class- this inspired me greatly, to want to be that person for other children in education today. Additionally, through my university studies and experiences working in schools so far, I have developed a commitment to creating a positive learning environment for a diverse range of children.

Unfortunately in some of my earliest experience of working in schools, I witnessed some disadvantaged children who were not provided with the appropriate level of care and support from staff. Ultimately, this experience combined with my positive experience as a pupil, led me to further develop the existing urge I had to become a teacher myself - with the aim of creating better opportunities and support systems for the next generation of children. I think it’s also important to note that although I’ve maybe been successful on paper, achieving gcse’s, a-levels and a degree, I didn’t achieve the highest grades possible. It was my ambition and resilience that have got me where I am today. I hope that by sharing my story, I can encourage pupils to believe in their own potential and consider a future career in teaching.

As someone who initially felt hesitant about traditional university experiences, the opportunity to study while working as a Teaching Assistant was the ideal solution for me. My passion for teaching grew stronger with each day I spent observing and supporting teachers in the classroom. The chance to pursue a degree in Primary Education while continuing to work full-time has allowed me to align my education with my career goals, all while reflecting on my current role and building practical skills. I have also been able to continue to earn a living while studying, setting myself up for my future.

This program has been instrumental in helping me apply new knowledge directly to my work, increasing both my confidence and my readiness for the next steps in my teaching journey. The support from my colleagues, tutors, and the university has been invaluable. Although I am the only student in my school pursuing this degree, the encouragement and guidance from the academic team have ensured that I never feel isolated in my studies. This constant support has driven me to excel in my assignments, for which I am deeply grateful.

Studying Primary Education while working as a TA has been a truly rewarding experience, providing me with a strong foundation and practical exposure that will be crucial in my transition to becoming a fully qualified teacher. The combination of hands-on learning and academic study has thoroughly prepared me for my next steps in the teaching profession.

Additionally, the Teacher Training Programme interview process was an excellent experience. I was given the opportunity to thoroughly prepare, which allowed me to confidently discuss my experiences and aspirations. Throughout the interview, I felt supported and at ease, which made the entire process feel both constructive and encouraging. Being informed of my successful application was an incredibly rewarding moment, and I am excited to continue my journey with the support of this program.