Trainee Testimonials
We asked our trainees “What were the best features of the CLF SCITT training programme?”; this is what they said….
“I have thoroughly enjoyed all aspects of the training programme. I have felt welcomed and supported by institute members of staff and mentors. I have enjoyed the variety of training days and hearing from guest speakers within the wider federation. I am confident that I have learnt a lot during the programme that I will take with me into my career. I feel incredibly grateful for the cohort that I have trained with and the encouragement from staff to enable us to form close relationships. I have made life-long friends from the very first week, thanks to the opportunities that we have been given.” Secondary Biology Trainee (N.B)
“The combination of learning, applying, and reflecting on our teaching practice each week. We learned something new, we planned to apply it in our lessons that week and then we reflected. The carousel at the start, being able to see different schools, settings, classes etc… This helped me to develop a sense of what type of school I would want to teach in. I ALWAYS felt super supported by all the staff I encountered. There was always a feeling that they wanted us to all do well-making sure we had the steps/knowledge be too successful.” Secondary English Trainee (M.M)
“My most memorable aspects of the CLF SCITT training programme – The time spent in school building relationships with learners and colleagues. The subject study sessions particularly with David Richardson. The emphasis on supporting each other. I have thoroughly enjoyed spending time with and supporting the science cohort. The training sessions on child safeguarding and EDI” Secondary Physics Trainee
“I loved having the training and practice interwoven. It was useful to learn something one week and get to apply it the next.
It felt like we established a fun, respectful and supportive community.” Primary Trainee
“The support available and received from the programme lead and mentors.
The amount of time spent in school.
The structure of the year meant you could stay in control of your time management and the gradual increase in teaching hours flowed well throughout the year. “ Primary Trainee
“I have absolutely loved being part of the CLF SCITT training programme. I came into the year not knowing what to expect and haven’t regretted my choice for a second. The support we have received from our course leaders, Sarah Goode in particular, has been excellent. As a group of trainees, we have built such a strong community and I will miss training with everyone on Fridays.” Primary Trainee
“Specialist sessions at the Institute to inform the real learning that takes place in the classroom. Maths sessions with Abby Cotton really stand out as sessions were interactive and practical. The ABA placement model works so well as both mentor and trainee can see the progress being made. There is so much support.” Primary Trainee
“Best feature… the care and emotional support of tutors and other trainees throughout a really challenging year!
The way the training days complemented and responded to our current learning on placement.
I always really enjoyed the training days and looked forward to them at the end of the week! I liked how interactive, engaging, hands on they were – incorporating lots of different learning activities/ways of learning that we could magpie in the classroom. Very different to the dry lectures that I went to at uni!
It was nice to have time learning alongside primary/secondary trainees and time with just Early Years trainees.
The induction week was spot on!” Primary Early Years Trainee
“My highlight is the optimism and determination I have to keep refining my practice. I’m so pleased I’ve been supported to develop that mindset.” Secondary History Trainee
“Building strong relationships with staff and students due to so much time in school- felt like a “proper” teacher rather than trainees towards the end of the year!” Secondary Chemistry Trainee
“Development in self-esteem, working with two fantastic mentors and subject departments and meeting some lifelong friends who we will stay in touch with” Secondary Art Trainee
