Training with Teach First

‘Teacher shortage is getting worse in the UK’

‘Science Teacher shortage spreads, forcing the government to get involved’

‘Teacher shortages at 'crisis' point as pupil numbers set to soar, MPs warn’

We often see headlines like these in the newspapers. So what is being done about it?

The answer. Teach First.

Teach First is a charity which encourages disadvantaged and low income communities across England and Wales to become leaders within the classroom.

With University costs now up to £9,000 per year, it’s no wonder that more and more of us are choosing not to go to University. The scheme allows you to be paid to train while completing Teach First’s Leadership Development Programme.

What does it involve?

6 weeks of intensive training before teaching in one of the partner schools for at least 2 years.

Results?

More than half of those who successfully completed a two year programme continue to teach.

But does it really work?

Research conducted for students undertaking the programme between 2008 and 2012 revealed the following:

· These students were seven times more likely to be in a senior school leadership position

· Taking on extra responsibilities and therefore earning on average 3,000 and 6,000 more by year 3 and 5

· Three times more likely to be teaching in schools serving low income communities three years after starting to teach

· Working in schools in challenging circumstances, with a majority working in low rated Ofsted schools.

· More than half of those who successfully completed a two year programme continue to teach.

There is still a lot of criticism that question whether we should be spending £76 million of tax payer’s money on a scheme whereby only half continue to teach, but surely half is better than the decreasing numbers we are seeing on PGCE courses?

We think that Teach First are doing a fantastic job in encouraging young people to become leaders in the classroom and offer a great solution with their development programme, but of course there is still a lot more that can be done to help.

What are your thoughts on this? Share your views on our Facebook or Twitter page, we would love to hear what you think.

Here at Class People, education is at the heart of everything we do and our focus during the challenges of supply teaching is always to ensure that those within the field are not affected.

If you're a teacher looking for short term, long term or permanent roles, get in touch with us today by calling 01242 898124 or email your CV to admin@classpeople.co.uk - you can even refer a friend and receive £100 of Love2Shop vouchers!*

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