School Blog
It Takes a Whole School to Train a Teacher
In this blog, Mike Simmons, Director of JTSCITT, highlights the importance of the summer before teacher training as a valuable time for preparation.
We recently spoke to Brenda Parker, the Affinity Learning Partnership Trust ITT and ECT Trust Lead. For over a decade, the JTSCITT has had the privilege of collaborating with The Affinity Learning Partnership. This partnership has highlighted the remarkable qualities and competencies our trainees bring to the classroom. Brenda shared with us how our commitment to excellence, professionalism, and the holistic development of trainee teachers sets us apart, making a lasting impact on schools and communities.
Below, we share more of Brenda’s insights on her experience working with our past JTSCITT trainees and what they offer.
Brenda, Trust ITT Lead at The Affinity Learning Partnership, puts it best: “We choose to work collaboratively with JTSCITT because of their commitment to excellence, professionalism, and the development of trainee teachers.” Our trainees stand out because they’re resilient, adaptable, and reflective. They have solid subject knowledge, but more importantly, they know how to apply it in real classrooms with real students. Brenda adds, “The training programme they provide is well-structured, engaging, and tailored to meet the diverse needs of our teaching staff.”
Classroom challenges are part of the job, but JTSCITT-trained teachers face them head-on with confidence and a problem-solving mindset. As Brenda points out, we “are always at the forefront of educational best practices, offering insights that are both practical and innovative.” Unlike some training routes that focus heavily on theory, we make sure our trainees get plenty of hands-on experience. This means they’re ready to manage behaviour, adapt lessons on the fly, and create inclusive environments where every student can succeed.
One thing you’ll notice about JTSCITT trainees and Early Career Teachers (ECTs) is their knack for using evidence-based teaching strategies. “Their expertise has been invaluable in equipping our trainees with the skills and confidence they need to succeed in the classroom,” says Brenda. Our trainees are great at using evidence-based techniques and encouraging students to think about their own learning. It’s not just about keeping lessons interesting – it’s about making sure they really stick.
At JTSCITT, we make sure our trainees are classroom-ready from day one. Brenda highlights, “We greatly appreciate the personalised approach that John Taylor SCITT takes with each trainee teacher, ensuring that everyone receives the support and resources they need to thrive.” Our programme balances the theory of good teaching with lots of practical classroom time. This means our trainees are confident, capable, and ready to hit the ground running, with no surprises when they step into their first teaching job.
Relationships are at the heart of great teaching. Whether it’s with pupils, colleagues, or parents, JTSCITT trainees know how to connect and build trust. Brenda shares, “Involving myself as the Affinity Learning Partnership Trust ITT Lead alongside our coordinators in decisions and asking our opinions on systems, their focus on fostering a collaborative learning environment has strengthened our teaching community, helping us to grow and evolve as a trust.” We put a big emphasis on emotional intelligence and effective communication because we know that strong relationships are key to a thriving classroom.
We are incredibly proud of our community – our trainees go on to be incredible educators. We value collaboration, always listening to feedback from our partners to make sure we’re meeting their needs and supporting our trainees effectively.
If you’re thinking about becoming a teacher, we’d love to support you on that journey. Whether you’re interested in primary or secondary education, our training programme is designed to help you succeed, with a blend of hands-on experience, expert guidance, and a supportive community behind you every step of the way.
In this blog, Mike Simmons, Director of JTSCITT, highlights the importance of the summer before teacher training as a valuable time for preparation.
This blog welcomes our new trainees to the JTSCITT, sharing more about our approach, our personalised support and building a teaching career.
Nervous to start your teacher training with us? In this blog, Mike Simmons, Director of JTSCITT, shares more about your first week so you can start your teaching journey with us feeling prepared and confident.
In this blog, Mike Simmons, Director of JTSCITT, highlights the importance of the summer before teacher training as a valuable time for preparation.
