What is School Direct?

Over the last few years, the government has encouraged schools to take more control of teacher training, as part of their plan to move towards school-led initial teacher training rather than the more traditional university-led routes.   For a school to become involved and offer School Direct there has to be a lead school that oversees a group of schools.  How much support is given by the Lead School varies with each provider.  

What Can School Direct Offer?

At the Great Schools Trust, our School Direct courses all offer a Post Graduate Certificate in Education (PGCE).  We offer Core School Direct, Salaried School Direct and PGCE apprenticeship routes.  Our Lead School is at King’s Leadership Warrington and we offer weekly training and support.   We have a dedicated person, Diane Lloyd, who supports you in completing your training with us with many years of experience working in schools and at a University as a Lecturer and Programme Leader on a PGCE, before coming to work at the Great Schools Trust. 

We work with the University of Cumbria to provide your PGCE.  The university offers professional learning days provided face to face or online and the university has a lead mentor who will come to King’s Warrington to support you.  

What Does the Course Involve?

There are two assignments to complete during your PGCE course, both at master’s level.   We can offer you support with your assignment writing and managing this workload on top of your teaching preparation and planning.  

If you would like more information about the School Direct at The Great Schools Trust programme or need help applying do not hesitate to contact us 01925 817939 or email on schooldirect@greatschoolstrust.com