Where does the Centre-based training take place?
Mainly centre-based training is held in the learning centre in Bransgore Primary School. However, a number of sessions are also held within our Partner schools across the 4 local authorities.
When do I need to arrive for Centre-based training?
The Centre-based training sessions starts at different times and these are published on the weekly timetable. (This will vary between 8.30 and 9.30)
What times do we start and finish when in schools?
While on school placement you are expected to keep to the times teachers follow.
Teachers at school usually arrive between 7.30 and 8.00am so that they can prepare materials for lessons and may also use this time to support trainees with their commitments for the day.
You will be expected to attend meetings after the children have gone home and therefore it is unlikely that your school day will end before 5.00pm and sometimes later.
Is it hard work?
Yes. Please read the Trainee comments on the website, which describe the challenges of this programme.
Do we get school holidays?
You will have the same holidays as schools at Easter and Christmas.
Who will support me?
For the duration of the programme you have a personal tutor, who is centre based and will provide you with support and guidance through tutorials and visits whilst on placement.
Whilst on practice you are supported by a dedicated mentor who will help you to plan, implement and evaluate your lessons. They are trained to ensure that they support your individual development.
Will I need to travel?
The SCITT programme is fortunate to encompass schools in 4 authorities, Dorset, Bournemouth, Hampshire and Poole and so it is inevitable that all Trainees will have to travel. We try hard to ensure that you are placed as conveniently as possible to your home but given that you will be placed in different schools during the programme it is often still necessary for trainees to travel some distance.
Some of the taught sessions of the programme are delivered in schools which also will mean extra travel.
What happens if I haven’t got a car?
We try to ensure that your school placement is on a bus or train route. When visiting schools we ask that trainees share transport as parking is often limited.
Will I need to study in the evenings and/or weekends for the course?
Most Trainees find that they spend evenings and weekends reading, writing assignments or planning lessons
Will I need to be organised?
There is a wealth of information to be gathered and stored and you will find it essential to keep professional well organised records and files. Your ability to be organised and manage your work is assessed as part of the programme.
It is your responsibility to organise flexible domestic arrangements so that you can manage the requirements of the course and your personal lives.
Do I need access to a computer and the internet?
It is essential that you have access to a computer and the internet. It is also advisable to have a digital camera.
Is there support for people with SEN?
We support all our trainees to fulfil their potential and provide additional study support facilities for trainees who have specific needs. It is your responsibility to provide us with information of any specific learning needs as early as possible so that we can assist your learning strategies.
What shall I read?
Start with the pre course reading lists. We strongly recommend that you read and become familiar with the National Curriculum, the Foundation Stage Curriculum Guidance and The Primary National Strategies.
It is also useful to read journals such as the Times Education Supplement and magazines such as Nursery world, Child Education and EYE which are available in your Local library.
