Taster Day for Tomorrow's Teachers

Young people planning to 'use their head? gathered at Edge Hill this week to take part in a teacher taster course at the Ormskirk Campus.

Over 300 students from colleges and sixth forms across the north-west region learned more about how to train as teachers from experts at Edge Hill- one of the largest providers of teacher education in the country.

Students from as far afield as the Isle of Man and Wales, Manchester and the Wirral, and a little closer to home Liverpool, Maghull and Cheshire spent the day finding out about the routes into teaching at primary and secondary level.

Edge Hill?s External Relations Team organised a packed programme for visitors, from advice on higher education fees and bursaries to tours of the campus, and a chance for students to meet newly qualified teachers and current teacher trainees.

"It?s great to see such enthusiasm for teaching from so many young people," said Diane McKone, Education Liaison Manager at Edge Hill. "Many of the students were impressed by the facilities at Edge Hill and found it really useful to hear about newly qualified teachers? experiences, and about the different training routes available."

Students also learned about the process of applying to teach, from initial contact at interview through to completing an application form.

"We hope that many of today?s visitors will return to Edge Hill to train as teachers. Feedback confirms that many found the day inspirational and are keen to complete their further education before applying to become teachers."

Edge Hill works in partnership with colleges and sixth forms in the region to provide enhanced support for students in years 12 and 13 who are considering applying for higher education. Some of its work includes providing sessions based at sixth forms and colleges on finance, study skills and careers, as well as organising campus based events such the teacher taster day.

ENDS