1) Who is eligible for the course?
Most undergraduates and postgraduates currently studying National Curriculum or related subjects. HND or Foundation Degree students in their second year of study are also eligible. To qualify for the scheme you must not already have Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) or be taking a course leading to QTS.
However, in addition for 2010-11 the TDA has only given us funding for placements in very specific shortage subject areas, and these are:
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Maths
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Physics
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Chemistry
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DT
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ICT
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Primary (male only applicants)
For a detailed explanation behind these decisions please see our placements page|.
As a consequence to be eligible for taking part students must either be studying for a relevant degree or have A Levels (or equivalents) in these subjects.
If it proves that you aren't eligible, but would like to investigate teaching as a career, it may be worth approaching schools in a commutable area for some voluntary experience and go from there. Further advice can also be sought from Michael Green, the Director of the Student Associates Scheme or our Faculty Office/Admissions Department.
2) What are the objectives of the scheme?
This Training and Development Agency (TDA) initiative offers an opportunity for students to obtain an introduction to Teacher Education, which is financed, and spend time in schools (Primary or Secondary). Those taking part will be paid a bursary of £600 (£40 per day in school) on completion of the course.
It is hoped that participants will promote higher education and provide a role model of a university student, since widening participation in higher education is a key aim of the scheme.
3) How is the scheme organised?
The scheme includes a taught course, covering many aspects of classroom practice and teacher work, together with a school placement.
4) How does the school placement work?
All students have a 15 day placement in a school. All students receive a bursary of £40 per day during their placement. School placements are normally organised in Kent and Medway schools to take place normally during the summer term after the completion of final exams. All students are required to interact with pupils as learners and actively support teachers whose lessons they participate in.
Students are asked to teach small groups of children and on occasion if the class teacher feels it is appropriate teach a lesson in part or whole. Students are supported by school based Mentors and the course Director. All students are required to apply for Criminal Records Bureau clearance prior to commencing their placement.
5) How is the scheme assessed?
Students are asked to submit a diary of their placement experiences as well as to complete a Training Entry Profile. There are 14 core goals which should be addressed whilst completing these documents. These are explained in full in a document on the Training & Development Agency. Download the document|
These documents are then handed in after the placement together with an attendance sheet and course evaluation form.
Following assessment successful students will receive a University certificate for the student associate scheme together with a bursary.
6) What options are available to me after completing the course?
For students successfully completing scheme there are several options: the Graduate Teacher Programme, the modular Post Graduate Certificate in Education, and the full time or part time PGCE with possible credits towards an MA. The Training Entry Profile that is completed during the scheme will enhance applications for any of these options.
7) How do I apply?
All applicants will be required to complete an application. Application forms are available from the Student Associate Scheme Administrator or you can visit our applications page|