1. Outstanding schools and contrasting placements
Most of our School Direct trainees are based at Uffculme School which is regularly among the top performing non-selective state schools in the South West. Uffculme School has been judges Outstanding by Ofsted in every inspection since 2007 and in 2017 was ranked 11th nationally for Progress 8, the Government's new headline measure for school performance.
Our diverse partnership of schools and sixth form colleges provide trainees with the opportunity to learn from outstanding practitioners in a variety of contexts, giving them the tools, skills and expertise they need to build highly successful careers.
Our partnership with Richard Huish and Exeter Maths School means that we are able to offer trainees a great opportunity to work with colleagues in a tertiary setting and develop their confidence with teaching A level. For those interested in a career in the Independent sector there is also the opportunity to be placed at Blundell's.
2. Outstanding partnerships
The University of Exeter is rated Outstanding for its Teacher Training provision. Together we train enthusiastic and committed applicants who have the potential to become outstanding teachers. 72% of our 2018/19 trainees were rated as Outstanding and 100% of trainees successfully secured teaching positions on completing the course.
3. Outstanding provision
Unlike traditional University based PGCE courses, your training starts at the beginning of the academic year. You become part of the school team from Day 1. Your placements are organised for you and by working with a number of partner schools across Mid Devon and Somerset we can ensure that you are able to train in a school close to your home.
4. Outstanding employment opportunities
In recent years, we have demonstrated that our high quality teacher training produces qualified teachers of an extremely high caliber who are sought after by us, and by colleagues in the partnership. Trainees who completed the programme in July 2021 have all secured employment for September 2021, with 50% of our trainees having secured employment in one of the Uffculme Trust schools.
"Training with WCTSA exceeded my expectations due to the depth and breadth of the course content, plus the amazing level of support from staff at Uffculme School, Exeter University and my University Tutor. Thank you for giving me the opportunity and for a fantastic training experience." Previous School Direct Trainee