Teach First, a national training programme offering a pathway into teaching, is being launched in seven schools across Wiltshire.

The fully-funded 12-month programme supports individuals to gain a PGCE teaching qualification while earning a salary and gaining hands-on experience in state schools across the country.

Teach First currently operates in hundreds of schools across the country, and following a new partnership with Ascend Learning Trust, seven new Wiltshire schools will be added to this.

“We are extremely excited to be working as a Teach First Training Partner. By working together, we can develop the future teachers of Ascend Learning Trust,” said Ruth Woodhouse, development lead for Ascend Learning Trust who announced the move.

“It is an incredible opportunity for anyone who is passionate about teaching and wants a hands-on approach.

“Our mission is to develop and retain high-quality professionals who relentlessly pursue the Ascend vision.

“Together we will foster a culture of compassion and inclusivity with high expectations and standards for all.”

Wiltshire schools that future teachers can now train at from September 2024 include Kingsbury Green Academy, Royal Wootton Bassett Academy, The Wellington Academy, Lawn Manor Academy, Noremarsh Junior School, Wellington Lions Primary Academy, and Wellington Eagles Primary Academy.

“In all Ascend placements there will be expert mentors on site, in addition to a wider central trust team, who will be on hand to support trainee teachers in their practice,” added a spokesperson for the Trust.