Testimonials
We aim to ensure that all our ITT students are ‘profession ready’ during their course so that they are well placed to secure their first teaching positions. We have a strong track record of employing our own ITT students and are rightly proud of our teacher retention rates. Please read the testimonials from some of our past and present trainees.
As a career-changer, I wasn’t keen to return to university – the structured, school-based route was ideal for me, and coupled with the support of Durham SCITT provided an excellent pathway to teaching. From day one, I was encouraged and mentored by professional and experienced colleagues, with a passion for developing outstanding teachers. Training sessions delivered by expert staff from across the curriculum grea
tly enhanced the teaching practice, and frequent observations and discussions with my subject mentor and colleagues allowed me to continually improve my practice throughout the course. Training at Whitburn C of E Academy has been a great experience, and has prepared me well for beginning my career in teaching.
Lewis, 2020 cohort
The School Direct ITT training at Whitburn Church of England Academy is excellent! Throughout the year, I felt supported by my mentor, alongside other members of the department and even from other members of staff who are always willing to help you along your journey. At Whitburn, you are treated like another member of staff, so there is ample opportunity to get involved in day-to-day school life. The School Direct approach allows more experience within the classroom. This therefore gives more time to try out new strategies with a class, more specific feedback from experienced members of staff and the chance to get to know your classes in more detail. Weekly training is offered, which is delivered by staff at Whitburn on a range of areas involved in teaching. This training compliments the ITT format and allows the chance to ask questions to different members of staff and to get new ideas. I would highly recommend training through Whitburn Church of England Academy.
Charlotte, 2019 cohort
