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01933 350391

Train with Us

We have a proven track record in successfully supporting trainee teachers

Teacher Training

Rushden Academy has a proven track record in successfully supporting trainee teachers on programmes leading to QTS and supporting ECTs through their induction period and beyond.

As a school with a strong and successful record for training new teachers to the profession, Rushden Academy works closely with School Centred Initial Teacher Training (SCITT) providers to provide fully supported and mentored school placements.

We have worked with The Pilgrim Partnership (previously SAF ITT) for many years, have supported second placement trainees from other courses and providers and are now building links with the National School of Education and Teaching at Coventry University:

Cick to visit the Coventry Univeristy Site

For further information on teacher training opportunities, routes into teaching or working here as an ECT, please contact Gail Brainwood, Director for Learning on 01933 350391 or by email: 


 Don’t take our word for it, here’s what our ex-trainees and NQT’s have to say about it!

 

"There was never any time during my trainee and NQT years at RA that I didn't feel fully supported to achieve my own outcomes. My mentor was by my side every step of the way, highly organised and reliable in arranging, preparing for, keeping to and documenting meetings, which were always based around targets that we had talked about and set together in order for me to make progress quickly and as effectively as possible. Where my mentor felt it was beneficial to do so, she supported me in organising observations or conversations with staff across the school from whom I could learn things of value to me personally, based on my areas of development. Training sessions were well thought out, delivered by specialist staff from all across the school - including the head! - and continuous. Our feedback was sought and taken into account when planning the content and organisation of the training. There is a well stocked professional development section in the library which further supports the different ways in which the school works to develop its staff. Colleagues, without exception, were friendly, welcoming and genuinely keen to help out. Now in my third year with the school, I wouldn't (and don't!) think twice about continually turning to my mentor, I know fellow trainees feel comfortable to do the same, and she never disappoints."
Mrs T Charlton - KS3 French Lead

I could not have asked for a better support system during my NQT year. As a new teacher, new to the school I was well informed and up to speed with the way in which the school functioned very quickly thanks to the support of Gail and my mentor. Gail then became my mentor after my previous left for Maternity leave and this transition was smooth and did not impact my day to day at all. Support is given by all staff to NQTs at Rushden Academy, with a real team ethos within the Academy but especially Gail and her team of Mentors continue to go above and beyond to support. I settled very quickly and could not have asked for a better school to start my teaching career with. Without the welcoming feeling and support given, I do not think I would have been ready to step into my HOY role as smoothly as happened. The induction programme is bespoke and informative ensuring that all staff are given all the knowledge and information they need to be able to settle quickly and complete their NQT or Training Programme. The way in which it is tailored using expert staff and experience from across the Academy is brilliant.
Mr C Smith - Teacher of PE & HoY 10

When starting Rushden Academy, I was a little nervous as starting a new school in a pandemic is a little daunting. However, the feeling was soon gone. Even before starting my new role I was contacted by my induction mentor and NQT mentor, they both went over and above to support me. On starting my new role as teacher of performing arts I was invited to weekly NQT meetings with other new staff, this was so helpful not only to my development as a teacher but also to get to know other staff and know there is support there if needed. I received meaningful feedback from lesson observations and this has really helped me progress as a teacher. I am so thankful for all of the help and guidance I’ve received since starting at Rushden, it makes me eager to develop and progress in my career as a teacher.
Miss C Grainger - Teacher of Performing Arts.

Rushden Academy is a very friendly and welcoming school.The support I gained was not only from my positive and encouraging mentor but also from other experienced teaching staff who shared good practice, allowed me to observe and ask many questions.The induction sessions have helped me to extensively develop my teaching skills through bespoke training sessions and reflection discussions.The programme was extremely well organised and delivered by staff who are absolutely amazing at what they do. I felt both supported and challenged throughout the year and always knew I could get useful advice when needed.
Mrs K Monkman - Teacher of English 

A bespoke, supportive and encouraging NQT programme. As an NQT beginning their teaching year in a pandemic, I was feeling a little nervous, however, Rushden Academy has provided an amazing NQT programme to ensure I feel supported and confident in my role. My mentor has provided endless support with regular meetings and check ins. As well as this the weekly meetings have provided a safe space in which we can discuss our weeks, always with a focus on the positive. The NQT training has provided me with new tools in order to be a successful teacher. Thank you for sharing your expertise and knowledge.
Miss L Montgomery - Teacher of English HoY 9

Gail made it impossible to fail the NQT year, with guided sessions and frequent meetings to discuss success stories and plan for future victories. Her knowledge of the process is invaluable and I could not have done it without her.
Mr A Malden - Teacher of History

My NQT year with Rushden Academy has been tailor made for my needs. The support has truly echoed the ethos of the school. I have personally been offered extra subject knowledge courses. I have been inspired by my mentor and the team which have surrounded me. It has been a challenging time with lots of hurdles to overcome, however, I have always had the support of all of my colleges. The team at Rushden Academy have welcomed me and always made me feel secure and supported. No question is ever a silly one and help is always provided. Team Rushden is providing me with excellence and making me the teacher I want to become, which I am very grateful for.
Mrs A Armitage - Teacher of Maths

I found the support of my fellow NQTs invaluable in my first year at Rushden, especially as many of them had trained here and knew more about the school, they were a great source of knowledge and guidance while we all got used to new systems, surroundings, and students. All the staff at Rushden were very welcoming and created a pleasant and supportive work environment, where people would regularly check in and offer help.

The induction process was thorough, and the provision of specialist NQT CPD enabled us to get to know key members of staff, and develop new teaching strategies which were tried and tested throughout the academy.

Lesson Feedback was always constructive and helpful, and often followed up in mentor meetings to check on the effectiveness of new strategies. Staff were always willing to be observed, which was valuable in developing teaching and getting to know teachers and the school.
Miss S Anderson  - Teacher of Art and Personal Development Leader

Throughout my training , NQT and RQT years, Rushden Academy and Gail ensured I was well supported with their excellent mentor programme, regular meetings and catch ups, as well as in the induction programme that ran on Monday evenings. During all of these, colleagues could often work through problems together and support each other, regarding specific pupils, whole groups and our practice in the classroom. I felt throughout these 3 years that if there was ever an issue or concern that I could speak to a number of colleagues in my support network and that these would be sorted. Even after my RQT year I was assigned a mentor that helped me to reflect and improve on my practice. I appreciate all of the support I received throughout these 3 years and believe that I am a better teacher because of training here.
Mrs G Bowers - Teacher of History

Get in Touch

Rushden Academy

  • Hayway,
    Rushden,
    Northamptonshire.
    NN10 6AG

  • 01933 350391

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