Initial teacher trainees are now becoming well established in their placement schools.  Many of the schools in the EENEL5 region are facilitating on school-based programmes and Neil Scoresby, a Secondary physics trainee with Suffolk and Norfolk SCITT has provided an insight on his experience with the training so far.

"The main reason I chose to train with SCITT is that it is school centred. Being in school from the very first day of term and having the opportunity to build relationships with classes and teach them early in the training year enables plenty of opportunity to learn and practice all aspects of school life. There is also an excellent balance between time in school and core and subject knowledge training, which helps develop skills and builds confidence in both teaching and knowledge. 

The subject knowledge days enable science trainees to work collaboratively together, and with expert science teachers across different schools, to improve our skills and knowledge in all areas of science. I specialise in physics, so my chemistry and biology are not as strong, therefore the opportunity to practice practicals, ask questions and share resources is invaluable. 

Subject knowledge days are organised throughout the training year so that there are regular opportunities to put the learning into practice when we are in school. A recent example was the training on safety in science practicals which came at a time when we are starting to teach practical lessons. The learning from the subject knowledge day can be used immediately upon returning to school and becomes embedded in our teaching."

The Julian Teaching School Hub is looking to increase the number of schools we can use to facilitate on the Subject Knowledge days and the Core Programme for both the Primary and Secondary school-based providers.  This is an excellent opportunity to develop middle leaders and experienced staff as part of their career progression.

If your school would like to be involved, or you would like to find out more about Initial Teacher Training, please contact Sarah Bird, ITT Lead sbird@ndhs.org.uk