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How JTSCITT Prepares Trainees for their ECT Year

Starting a career in teaching is an exciting journey. We recently caught up with four of our maths trainees, Sophie Walker, Dem Roulston, Siobhan Douhan, and Joe Orchard, all of whom have secured teaching roles for September. They shared their experiences of stepping into the profession and how JTSCITT has prepared them for their first ECT year. 

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Building Confidence in the Classroom

Making the jump from trainee to qualified teacher can feel daunting. Thanks to the hands-on experience provided by JTSCITT, our trainees are stepping into their ECT year with confidence. Our programme ensures that every aspect of teaching is covered, giving trainees a strong foundation and practical strategies that truly make a difference. 

Siobhan found that learning about formative assessments was really helpful. “It’s something I hadn’t really considered before but it is a great way for me to know how much of my teaching my class is taking on board and what I might need to go over again. It’s been so useful.” 

Dem, on the other hand, highlighted the value of behaviour management training. “It’s one of the most challenging parts of teaching, but JTSCITT has given us real, implementable advice that genuinely works. The strategies we’ve learned are practical and can make a big difference.”  

By focusing on hands-on, real-world training, we ensure that our trainees feel prepared for the realities of the classroom from day one. 

TSCITT has given us real, implementable advice that genuinely works. The strategies we’ve learned are practical and can make a big difference.
Dem Roulston
JTSCITT Maths Trainee

Navigating the Job Application Process

Securing your first teaching job is a big milestone. At the JTSCITT, we provide tailored support to help our trainees stand out. From crafting applications to preparing for interviews, our personalised approach gives them the edge they need. 

Sophie appreciated the detailed feedback she received during the application process: “Mike gave really clear areas of improvement on applications, rather than generalised advice. It meant we could really focus our time on the most important parts of the application.” 

When it came to interviews, the trainees found that their passion and connection with students set them apart. Siobhan shared a key piece of feedback she received: “I was told that my enthusiasm for building relationships with students and making lessons engaging really made an impact. It was a big reason why they chose me for the role.” 

Sophie, too, received praise for her teaching style: “They really liked my firm but gentle approach with the children – they said I got the balance just right.” Striking the right balance between authority and approachability is essential for classroom management, and we ensure our trainees develop this skill early on. 

Joe’s passion for forming meaningful relationships with students also helped him secure his role. “My desire to bond with the children and really make a positive impact stood out to them in my interview.”  

This emphasis on relationship-building is something JTSCITT instils in all its trainees. We reinforce the idea that great teaching goes beyond just delivering content – it’s about creating a supportive and inspiring learning environment. 

JTSCITT teacher trainee teaching a classroom of students

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“There has been nothing that I have experienced in the classroom that hasn’t been covered by JTSCITT. I feel like they prepare us for every eventuality, so I’m not worried about anything surprising me in the classroom.”
Siobhan Douhan
JTSCITT Maths Trainee

The JTSCITT Advantage

JTSCITT’s school-centred training model gives our trainees a significant advantage when stepping into their ECT year.  Compared to other routes, our trainees spend much more time in the classroom, making them more prepared for the realities of teaching. 

Dem noted: “We’re often on placement with other trainees that have taken the PGCE route, and we are more prepared than them by miles as we’ve had so much more classroom experience – it’s really clear to see.”  

Siobhan echoed this sentiment: “There has been nothing that I have experienced in the classroom that hasn’t been covered by JTSCITT. I feel like they prepare us for every eventuality, so I’m not worried about anything surprising me in the classroom.”  

This hands-on experience gives JTSCITT trainees a head start, allowing them to develop confidence and adaptability before stepping into full-time roles. 

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Looking Ahead: The First Year as an ECT

As they step into their new roles, all four trainees are excited about the year ahead. One of the biggest things they’re looking forward to is seeing their students grow and develop over time. 

Joe highlighted how rewarding it will be to witness student growth. “I’m really looking forward to being able to see a class through the whole year and track their development. It’ll be nice to see how my students progress and be their ‘go-to’ person, hopefully!” 

Beyond teaching, our trainees are also eager to take on some pastoral responsibilities. Siobhan is particularly looking forward to being a form tutor: “Having my own form group that I can take ownership of and build strong relationships with – it’s something I’m really looking forward to.” 

In Conclusion

The transition from trainee to teacher is a big step, but with the right support and preparation, it’s one that can be made with confidence. JTSCITT has equipped our trainees with the skills, knowledge, and experience to thrive in the classroom, and we couldn’t be prouder of what they’ve achieved. 

As they begin their ECT year, we know they’ll make an incredible impact, inspiring the next generation of learners. We can’t wait to see them flourish! 

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