Insight Classroom Teacher Review

Brilliant insight into Teach First including learning about the LDP, the basics of teaching, information about working in a deprived school and a chance to put all the skills to practice at a Teach First school. Great to meet like-minded people and gained a lot of skills.

The company made us feel they were seriously considering us and keen for us to apply, and be successful, in gaining a place on the LDP. It was disappointing to only be at the Head Office on the first and last day, and to be in an alternative venue on the other training days. This did, however, make only a small difference to experience.

The 4 initial training days were brilliant at providing us with the necessary skills needed to go into the schools. The Ambassadors running the sessions were supportive in answering any questions and ensuring we had just the right amount of knowledge on a wide range of topics. They catered well for participants differing levels of experience working with children or in education. While I had learnt a lot of the content on my University course I was not bored or patronised, but felt it was a valuable experience to see the level and style of teaching we would probably receive during the Summer Institute. The Insight Programme Leader was excellent at solving any concerns quickly. I was initially told they were only looking for Secondary teachers from the Insight participants but my concerns that my degree and skills were much more suited to Primary, and my reasons for this, were taken seriously. A good outcome was reached as I was able to be considered for Primary when I attended the Assessment Centre. The teacher at our placement school was a 2nd year Teach First participant and gave us excellent support and guidance. We were given a huge amount of advise about the Assesment Centre and opportunity to practice, and be given feedback on, skills for the Assesment Centre.

A lot, but mainly because my degree has elements of Education and social deprivation within it.

A well-planned timetable. I felt it was a good balance between time in schools and training. Perhaps 3 days training would have been enough.

Great! Everyone was like-minded and quickly became passionate about what TF stood for. There was a lot of work to do and it was very tiring but the atmosphere remained friendly throughout.

Lots of opportunities to develop skills especially in teamwork, planning, problem solving and presentations. I feel I significantly improved my presentation skills through gaining confidence. Everyone progressed a lot in their knowledge/skills over the two weeks. We got the chance to work as a group to take two lessons. It was great to lead the class and made us feel we really achieved something and had a taste of the planning that goes into each lesson. We also got to observe some fantastic teachers and help with school trips.

Gave a realistic view of TF. Ambassadors were honest that it is a very tough programme, but rewarding. Lots of chances to ask questions. Placements were in TF Schools and so gave a realistic experience of the type of school you would be placed in on the LDP. The teaching sessions showed what the Summer Institute would be like.

Lots of sessions on this and saw that it is a very united company with everyone sharing in a common goal: to address educational disadvantage.

I started the programme certain that I wanted to do teaching but I wasunsure which route was right for me. I had doubts over the on-the-job training approach and whether it was for me, or if a Primary PGCE would be better. I left certain that Teach First was right for me and passionate about working to address Educational Disadvantage. Most importantly, I learnt that Teach First don't throw participants in at the deep end but that you complete a lot of work prior to the Summer Institute, followed by the intensive Summer Institute and then are very supported with mentors and training days once you start in your school. Through the Insight training sessions I was convinced that they have well researched and innovative teaching methods and produce high quality and ambitious teachers. I am so glad I did Insight in order to discover that Teach First is right for me and be confident in that decision. I can't wait to start the LDP in 2014.

Covered all my travel expenses plus £10 food per day. Very generous food expenses considering it is a charity.

Lots.

Opportunities to go for drinks with Ambassadors. The participants staying in the hostel socialised a lot and had some nights out, but it did not mean those staying at home didn't get to know each other.

Summer Projects.

Definitely if they are interested in TF but unsure if it is for them.