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06/08/2013
06/08/2013
Would you like to train to be a teacher but can't find a provider in West Norfolk?
If so, you can enrol on a PGCE course at Bishop Grosseteste University in Lincoln and complete most of your studies without leaving the area.
BGU is working in partnership with a group of schools in West Norfolk to develop more placement opportunities for trainee teachers on either full-time or part-time courses at the university.
The scheme is providing an opportunity for trainee teachers in West Norfolk to access teaching placements close to home and is making it easier for schools in the area to recruit high-quality, well trained teachers.
There are still places available on the PGCE (Post Graduate Certificate in Education) course at Bishop Grosseteste University starting this September, and after the first three weeks most of the training will take place in the Kings Lynn or Downham Market area.
"The aspiration is to enhance the quality of training for all beginning teachers in the area," said Suzie Hayes from St German's Primary School near Kings Lynn, who is co-ordinating the West Norfolk schools hub.
"Schools in West Norfolk have welcomed this opportunity to work more closely with Bishop Grosseteste University as it is providing an opportunity for trainee teachers in the area to access placements close to home, to promote the area and to increase opportunities for the recruitment new teachers in local schools."
Corinne Yusuf (23) from Upwell near Wisbech completed her PGCE at Bishop Grosseteste University this summer and will begin as a newly qualified teacher at Emneth Primary School in Norfolk this September.
"When I was applying for a PGCE I wanted to train with a provider with an outstanding reputation in education," she said. "I was so excited when I was offered a place at Bishop Grosseteste University but equally concerned about the limited links with schools outside of Lincolnshire.
"I wanted to stay in the Norfolk area and had prepared myself for some difficult situations with school placements where I would inevitably have to travel a fair distance.
"I was incredibly lucky when the Norfolk hub started to form and placements in excellent schools close to home were found for me so easily. I gained such valuable experiences in Norfolk schools and worked with outstanding mentors and link tutors, and I was provided with a wealth of support.
"I now feel at an advantage going into my first year of teaching, having had experience in local schools and established connections which I am so grateful for and may prove to be important in the future."
A number of schools have committed to working as part of the ITT (Initial Teacher Training) hub, including St Germans Primary School, Magdalen Village School, Clenchwarton Primary School, St Martin at Shouldham CE VA Primary School and Terrington St Clement Community School.
The admissions team at Bishop Grosseteste University can advise any prospective applicants about the PGCE programme. Email the team on enquiries@bishopg.ac.uk or call 01522 527347 and ask to be put through.
