Taster Programme Review

I attended 2 day taster days at Teach First as a first-year student in university. I really enjoyed learning and broadening my knowledge of the difficulties that occur with regards to educational opportunities for those who are less advantaged. I also enjoyed being given the chance to teach my own lesson with other peers in my group.

On arrival, the staff made me feel very welcomed and directed me to where I needed to go. They were very friendly and you could instantly tell that they enjoyed their job and strived to make a difference in children's lives through what they do. I felt that my contributions were valued greatly.

With every task that we were given, there were very clear guidelines as to what we had to do and how much time we had to do it in. Also, the purpose of the task was and the outcome that was to be achieved was explained very clearly. I felt very supported by all of the staff at Teach First.

The best part of my experience was the fact that through every single task that we were given, it was explained which skill we would acquire or develop from it. Some include leadership, teamwork and communication. I not only use these in my everyday life but they have especially helped me when I have taken part in other teaching schemes.

The insight days were very structured, with a clear schedule of what we were going to do each day and the times with which we would complete it by. It was very clear that the staff were very organised as the switchover between staff members for each workshop was very smooth.

The atmosphere was full of people who were determined to help others even though we came from a range of backgrounds. Everybody, including the staff, was very friendly and no one was singled out. Even in the morning and at the end of the day when everyone was tired, the atmosphere was so joyful. A very good environment to learn in.

Even though the insight programme was only for two days, Teach First spent a lot of time helping us to develop personal skills which could be applied specifically and broadly. Also, they gave us the opportunity to teach a lesson to a group of school children who gave us feedback.

Due to the fact that I was only there for two days, it just wasn't possible to be able to experience what it would be like to have a full-time role. However, they did offer us an array of programmes which we could apply for in the second and third year which would give us that insight.

Having done my insight programme in the company's head office, I grasped an understanding of the atmosphere of the place. Although it may not be extensive, we had a tour around the place and through talking to people who worked there, I understood their drive and passion as a collective group.

I already had my heart set on teaching and having done those insight days, only made my passion grow stronger. This was because I realised that through my job I can help those who are disadvantaged. Also, after having received feedback from the children, I realised that after teaching them for just 30 minutes, I had already made such a difference!

Teach First offered to reimburse my travel expenses. However, I lived quite close so I did not need to be reimbursed. For those who did live far away, they were offered to be reimbursed and to stay in a hotel for the night which was very close to the office.

Yes, we had a few hours where the staff set up stalls where we could talk and ask any questions to those who worked at Teach First. We also were introduced to those of work and worked at the firm over the two days. Also, there were people there from other places who offered opportunities to tutor.

Given that I was only there for two days, there was only a short amount of our day that we were able to network. However, those working at Teach First did make it possible as they set up a stand which enabled us to network. We spoke to those who worked at Teach First but also those who worked elsewhere.

Unfortunately, I did not find out anything about this area. However, they invited speakers who had done the Teach First programme before and they gave us a talk about how they have used that experience in other sectors of their life. also, what they had gone on to do other than teaching.

I would definitely recommend the Teach First insight days to anyone who either wants to be a teacher or who is thinking about it. It may increase your passion or it may help you to realise that it isn't for you! Either way, you would have developed your skill set whilst realising that this career path is or isn't for you!