Taster Programme Review

I found the Taster Programme really rewarding personally, enabling me to develop my confidence and ability to think on my feet. It really was an eye-opener to what working in education can be like across the UK, and some of the disadvantages that face some students. It was definitely a worth while experience.

Everyone was really welcoming and eager to help.

Teach First were really supportive when I was applying for their taster programme. I had spoken to a representative of theirs at my University who had told me about this programme and given me some brief details. Upon registering my interest on the website I received a call from someone aiding me with the application process. Everyone there over the two days of the taster programme were just as helpful.

Teach First really aided the development of my confidence and ability to think on my feet. This was through their debating sessions and smaller workshops. I also led other people in one of the tasks, which I do not do too often. I feel these skills will be very useful in my career in the future, and even at University, when delivering presentations and group tasks.

The Taster Programme was very well structured. We were provided with all the details prior to the event, and were emailed a breakdown of the activities on each day. On both days, the different tasks ran smoothly and were clearly organised and structured. It was nice to see that each task corresponded to the development of a certain skill set.

I found the general atmosphere at the Taster Programme really good. Everyone was excited and there for the same reason. It was lovely to be with a lot of people who shared a similar interest and dream. We all supported one another, and made good friends. The staff were also very helpful.

They provided adequate training for us to be able to develop our skills, that would enhance the quality of teaching we would be able to provide. They also had individuals come in and speak to us, to give us an insight into their experiences and give us any hints and tips.

Completing the Taster Programme definitely demonstrated to me what it would be like to have a full time role with the company. They explained their values and we were taught lots about their aims and mission for the upcoming years ahead. The statistics they shared with us regarding the levels of education across the UK were shocking.

During the Taster Programme, Teach First explained their values and taught us lots about their aims and their mission for the upcoming years ahead. It demonstrated what they see as the highest priority, and which areas were in most need. The statistics they shared with us regarding the levels of education across the UK were shocking.

The content of the day was especially helpful in helping me decide on my future career path. The Taster Programme enabled me to develop skills that would be vital if I were to pursue a career in teaching, and see if these were skills I was strong in or needed to develop. We also had the opportunity to teach a class of Year 7-9 pupils.

My accommodation for one night in London was covered by Teach First as I lived a reasonable distance away, so I would not be able to commute. I was also reimbursed for my train tickets, as I had to travel via the train. Teach First provided food throughout the programme.

Yes- We had the opportunity to talk to many people who worked for the company. In addition to this, we were also given the opportunity to speak to staff about future programmes with the company. They also had individuals in that had already completed the programme to provide their experience and answer any questions.

It was really good to be able to network with other people interested in teaching in the future. The staff there was also really approachable and eager to help answer any questions we had.

No

Yes- I would recommend this insight to a friend. I really enjoyed the experience, and I feel it helped me develop as a person. Teach First were really helpful and supportive, and I found the activities done on the programme engaging, and challenging enough. You can develop your skills, but also learn something new as well.