School Centred Initial Teacher Training partnership
Keele is delighted to be taking a lead among universities in pioneering new approaches to initial teacher training.
Keele University has underlined its commitment to the region’s schools by joining forces with two exceptional schools to launch an exciting new model to deliver teacher training.
From 1 September Keele will work with Seabridge Primary School and Ormiston Sir Stanley Matthews Academy (OSSMA) to establish what is known as a School Centred Initial Teacher Training (SCITT) partnership that will provide training opportunities for over 100 potential teachers. Students will do most of their training within the schools that are members of the partnerships, and will also benefit from facilities on the University campus, where they will take a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) as a vital part of their programme.
This reflects the Government’s vision of school-based teacher training, and offers a new approach to the relationship between SCITTs and universities. The SCITTs were formally approved on 18 June by the National College of Teaching and Leadership (NCTL), which oversees national provision of teacher training.
Charlie Taylor, Chief Executive of the National College of Teaching and Leadership said: ‘We have a clear vision for a world-class, school-led education system where teacher and leadership training is delivered locally, not by Whitehall. Keele University, Seabridge and OSSMA have clearly embraced this by developing a unique teacher training offering that may become a blueprint for others to follow.’
Sandra Mitchell, Head Teacher of Seabridge, said: ‘In schools we are here to ensure the best possible learning experiences and outcomes for all our children. We therefore need the very best, committed, engaged and dedicated teachers. This is a wonderful opportunity for schools to shape the future of ITT, working alongside Keele University, and to grow our very own high-
quality teachers who can make a positive difference.’
Mark Stanyer, Principal of OSSMA, said: ‘The future of education and our young people is paramount in the development of our country and its economy. Having the opportunity to work in partnership with like-minded professionals is an honour and privilege. I have no doubts that "Oaks", the OSSMA and Keele SCITT, will produce the outstanding teachers that all children deserve to be taught by.’
Professor Nick Foskett, Keele University Vice-Chancellor, said: ‘Keele is delighted to be taking a lead among universities in pioneering new approaches to initial teacher training. The new SCITTs not only provide a model that others may wish to adopt, they also ensure that Keele can continue its long tradition of offering high-quality teacher education and producing excellent teachers who go on to work in local schools and enhance the life chances of the region’s children.’
Notes for Editors
The National College for Teaching and Leadership (NCTL) is an Executive Agency of the Department for Education. More information can be found at: https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/national-college-for-teaching-and-leadership.
The Department for Education has introduced School Direct a programme to allow schools to recruit and train their own staff.