First class school based training programme

We offer you a first class school-based training programme leading to QTS with PGCE and Masters credits.

We work closely with Sheffield Hallam University to ensure that all of our students achieve not only QTS but also PGCE with 60 Masters credits. Our students also have full access to all of the facilities at the university.

We offer a unique, 2 week induction programme at the start of the course, which allows you to meet your peers and have an in depth introduction to teaching and learning prior to going into your first placement school. This means that when you start in your first placement school, you will feel fully prepared.

We run weekly core training days in school. Here, you will learn about all of the key aspects of teaching your subject in a vibrant, varied and supportive environment.

We have an outstanding team of experienced, dedicated subject and school-based mentors, who will support you throughout the year through tutorials, seminars and informal meetings. You will also have access to working with colleagues across our wider network as part of the Nova Education Trust: whether it’s a conversation with our CEO, a careers session with Executives from the Education Team, working with subject teachers from across our schools or simply visiting any of our varied settings to broaden your experience, you’ll gain from all that training in a dynamic, successful and forward-thinking Trust can offer you.

You will gain experience in a wide variety of settings starting with weeks in an early years setting or primary school, 2 main placements in complementary primary/secondary schools, a week in a special school and an international experience. Wow! How good is that?

Varied cross phase experience

You will have the opportunity to experience teaching in a variety of primary, secondary and post-16 settings across the East Midlands including a special school and the unique opportunity to spend time in an international school. You will experience a diverse range of educational cultural capital throughout the training year as you have many opportunities to visit a wide range of different educational settings that will help you grow and develop into an amazing teacher. This is an unrivalled opportunity and one of the reasons why our SCITT won the NASBTT National Innovative Practice Award.

Support Network

From the moment you join us you will be supported by an experienced and friendly team, from the SCITT Director, core team, admin personnel to the mentors/subject tutors. In the early induction period, you will be encouraged to get to know your peers and develop your own close knit family of fellow trainees and trainers across the partnership, who will act as invaluable support as the year progresses and later on as you begin your career.

You will normally spend one day per week training with our experienced staff and will have subject specific training with your Lead Subject Tutor. He or she will be able to help you with all aspects of the course and support you personally if the going gets tough!

When on placement you will have the support of each individual school's Initial Teacher Training Co-ordinator, who will look after your needs whilst in school and who will ensure your in-school training programme meets your needs. You will also have a school-based mentor who will meet with you formally once a week as well as support you throughout your time in school.

When it comes to applying for jobs, we will give you all the support you need with applications and interview techniques to help you get your all important first job!

We have a dedicated pastoral lead who looks after the welfare of our trainees who provides a safe space to discuss any problems or concerns.

As part of the programme enrolment, all trainees will receive additional benefits via the Nova Perks scheme, private health care through BHSF, Chartered College of Teaching membership and career support.

About us

Exceptional support in securing your first teaching post

A significant number of our trainees successfully get teaching positions upon completion of the programme. This process is facilitated by the SCITT team.

We provide exposure to a diverse range of schools and settings, facilitating the development of a clear understanding of your preferred teaching environment. Consequently, our trainees secure employment in an educational institution that aligns with their educational philosophy and preferences.

Our organisation provides assistance and support in the areas of application preparation and interview skills development.

Our aim is to provide support and assistance throughout the entirety of the process.