Teach First assistant Review

It was extremely informative; I learned a great deal about teaching in all sorts of different situations and in all classroom settings which was very valuable. The other participants were friendly and we got along well as a team; there was a great atmosphere and excellent instructors. The accommodation was also very good.

I felt like I was a valuable part of the team and a key part in the Teach First movement. Everyone was very respectful of each other's views and ideas, and we all got many opportunities to give feedback, and were made to feel like our view really did count

The mentors were very supportive and would answer any questions that anyone had. A possible improvement could have been information before the programme, as some people were a bit confused as to what was happening on the programme until arrival, however on arrival everything was thoroughly explained and guidance was very good

I gained many skills, from leadership within a classroom environment, to working in a team with the other trainees. We had to do a lot of problem solving and decision making, especially under the pressure of a classroom of children watching you. These skills will enable me to be more resilient.

It had a clear structure, from spending the first few days training all together, to splitting off into groups to focus on key skills. Every hour was accounted for in terms of training, and it was delivered effectively. We then had the natural progression of shadowing and finally teaching ourselves.

The general atmosphere was really vibrant, and it made me really keen to become a teacher as I was surrounded by so many passionate and ambitious people. There was the essence of everyone really trying to make a difference to the lives of young people, which was something very special.

The company had obviously invested a lot in our training- the offices were very modern and well equipped. We had a variety of different trainers and instructors, all experts in their field. We had very good accommodation and were very well looked after. I really felt like they valued us as employees

It really opened my eyes to what teaching would be like, and the challenges and rewards involved. I think the Teach First graduate scheme would be hard work but extremely rewarding, working for such a great course whilst learning brilliant skills and having great career advancement opportunities. I think this is a unique career.

the company has a very welcoming culture which came across in the programme

It has helped me realise that I want to be a teacher

I was well paid

We met loads of people involved with Teach First and now I have lots of useful contacts

There were many opportunities

Employees take part in a variety of activities, including many sports events and tournaments, socials and trips out. The company offers benefits such as discounted memberships to gyms and health clubs, trips to theatres and events and restaurant deals. The company has a really friendly culture so I feel that I would be welcome

I would definitely recommend this insight programme to a friend, in fact one of my friends suggested it to me. It is really fun and informative, I learnt so many skills which will help me at uni and in later life, and I have a better idea of where I am going.