Scheme to boost teacher training in schools is commended by Ofsted

27 Nov 03
The 'training schools' programme has boosted the quality of initial teacher training and offers good value for money, according to Ofsted.

28 November 2003

The 'training schools' programme has boosted the quality of initial teacher training and offers good value for money, according to Ofsted.

The education watchdog found that the vast majority of the 82 schools awarded training school status since 2000 used the extra funds granted, up to £100,000 per school per year, effectively.

Under the scheme, the schools provide initial training placements to student teachers, offer mentors and take part in relevant research.

According to Ofsted's report, published on November 25, two-thirds of the training schools reported that teacher recruitment and retention had improved as a result of being involved in the programme.

A third also reported improved morale among members of staff.

The report identified strong leadership and management as key ingredients of successful training institutions.

It found that the most effective had integrated their training activities with other initiatives, such as being Beacon schools or winning specialist college status.

David Bell, the chief inspector of schools, said: 'Trainees' evaluations of the quality of mentoring in these schools were overwhelmingly positive, and teachers in almost all of those visited felt the programme had improved their teaching.'

PFnov2003

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