“I took part in the Devon Secondary Teacher Training course (Drama) back in 2001 after completing a degree in Theatre and Performance Studies. This particular course was the most appealing to me as it put the trainee right where you needed to be... in the cut and thrust of a vibrant local school.  It felt as if you were part of the staff at the school, due to the vast amounts of time spent in the classroom.  After all, there is only so much time you can spend discussing what makes a successful teacher... the real learning takes place through making mistakes in the classroom and being guided by supportive colleagues and mentors. I found the SCITT course the most rewarding part of my whole education as it was challenging, yet interesting and even at times, fun.

Upon starting work as an NQT, I felt ready and settled into the job more easily than my NQT colleagues from other courses, who had spent more time out of the classroom. 

After two years, I became Head of Drama - a big step at an early stage of my career.  I genuinely believe that the Devon SCITT course played a major part in this success by helping me lay and build upon the necessary foundations to becoming a good teacher."

Ben,

Head of Drama

A Midlands school

"The course was an excellent mix of theory and practice, which turned out to be ideal preparation for teaching in schools."

Madeline,
Teacher of French and Spanish who is also teaching French in local Devon primary schools as part of her school's outreach programme.

"I chose the DSTTG as it offered such a comprehensive approach to secondary Drama teaching.  The practical experience really gives you a huge advantage, as so much of your time is spent in the classroom with the young people.  The course was a very rewarding experience as it prepared me thoroughly for my own steps into the classroom.  The training led by Jackie Taylor made the transition from student teacher into N.Q.T very smooth, as I felt I had been prepared for any eventuality.  Having completed the course I have been teaching in South Wales in a thriving and high achieving school.  As a result of my Devon experience, I have been able to continue to achieve high standards in my work.”

Matt,

Drama Teacher

Wales

“After completion of my BMus in 2002 I tried a number of jobs ranging from office work to retail.  After moving to Cornwall, I was employed by Truro College, supporting FE students with profound and multiple learning difficulties.  During this time I worked closely with a music therapist as well as planning and leading sessions with the group.  I realised I wanted to explore these skills further, and teacher training seemed to be the natural progression.

I chose the Devon SCITT course for a number of reasons, the main one being the contact time we would have in school from early September.  The size of group and naturally the location appealed greatly too.  The structure of the course was very clear and we could easily measure our progression through the QTS standards.  The support from all members of staff was amazing and the mentors in the schools were brilliant sources of information and tissues in a crisis!  Perhaps the most useful (and enjoyable) aspect of the training were the workshops planned for us.  We were exposed to professionals who were leaders in their fields and who could provide us with first hand information and experience.  We also had a lot of fun and as a group socialised together well.

I am currently employed as a full time music teacher at a large Roman Catholic school - although the other bonus from the course being my training in drama has meant my continued involvement in this subject area.  Career wise, I would like more training in the sphere of performing arts with a view to running my own department one day.... however, completing my NQT year would also be great!”

Thea,

Music Teacher

Gloucestershire