Bishop Challoner Training School, in partnership with Alliance schools (BCTSA), is an accredited provider of school-based teacher training in Birmingham and across the West Midlands.

This Primary (5-11) with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) course leads to Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) and a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE). Through this programme you will begin a career that makes a difference, in mainstream or specialist provision, working alongside expert teachers within inclusive environments. You will develop depth of knowledge to support all learners and enhanced knowledge to promote learning for SEND pupils. You will receive specialist training and will undertake placements in both mainstream and special schools.

Our aim is to prepare trainees to start their journey to become outstanding teachers, delivering high-quality, purposeful and inclusive learning experiences, inspiring a love of learning and successful outcomes. You will learn to educate children in all primary curriculum subjects, and gain specialist knowledge in teaching children with special educational needs.

During the training year you will spend the majority of your time based in a school alongside experienced teachers and leaders. One day a week you will attend training which is underpinned by current evidence-informed practice and research. These days will focus on professional studies, core curriculum (English, Maths and Science) and foundation subject pedagogy. Sessions will be delivered by expert practitioners and specialists, and will include:

• Behaviour management
• Learning environment
• Planning
• Phonics
• Assessment
• Safeguarding
• Teaching pupils with special needs (SEN)
• Teaching pupils with English as an additional language (EAL)
• Subject and curriculum knowledge

You will also attend specialist SEND sessions to gain a deep insight into the range of needs of children, understanding of statutory frameworks, and knowledge of how schools offer support to parents and carers.

You will be in your school from day one.  At the beginning of the year you will observe expert practitioners, moving towards leading small parts of a lesson and gradually building up to teach whole lessons. You will receive the support of school-based mentors/class teachers, as well as members of the BCTSA Central Team and subject specialists. The well-being of our trainees is very important to us and we take pride in the personalised provision we offer.

To enrich your professional practice and develop your expertise you will complete 2 PGCE assignments, which will contribute 60 credits towards a Master’s degree.