From an early age I knew that I had the desire to teach and that my focus was going to be teaching English. As I approached the end of my degree in 2018, I decided I wanted to gain wider school experience first before I took the step into teacher training. As a result I began to work as a Teaching Assistant and over the next three years eventually became a cover supervisor. At this point I had realised that the profession was for me, and I began to research into different training providers. The GUTP instantly stood out from the other providers. The focus on the practical aspects of teaching with a more hands on style of training coinciding with the opportunity to observe experienced teachers and then gradually develop my skills before taking over the responsibilities seemed like the perfect decision.

The recruitment process was incredibly reassuring. Despite the pandemic restrictions I was able to be interviewed in person at the GUTP house located at Sponne School. All of the staff were incredibly welcoming and supportive throughout the entire process. During the recruitment process the GUTP gave me a clear understanding of the expectations of the course and explained both the QTS elements as well as the university related PGCE elements. Following the process I had a firm knowledge of the expectations the course would have of me. To fully ready yourself prior to the training process I would recommend gaining some experience within a school setting first, whether that be through a short work experience placement or work themselves. It will be a really good way of allowing yourself to get a first hand viewing of the responsibilities a teacher has.

When I arrived at my first training school my school-based tutor was faultless in their support of me, no question was left unanswered, no situation went unexplained, and all worries were calmed immediately. When the time came for my second placement, I felt a real readiness to push myself into a new situation and up my teaching hours. My second placement was just as supportive – my second school-based tutor allowed me to trial numerous styles of teaching and offered me tips and tweaks to hone my craft and decide what my style would be. At the end I felt I had a true understanding of the demands of a teacher and ready to begin my career with classes of my own. At both placements all staff were welcoming and supportive, there was a real sense of community and I felt accepted from the off and I feel like I have created bonds that will last a lifetime.

Overall I believe that the GUTP offers the perfect way to train to teach for those seeking a more hands on classroom-based training whilst also receiving the university based PGCE aspects. Everyone involved with the company from the office staff to the school-based tutors, to the subject leads, all the way to the directors were immensely helpful and supportive. I cannot stress how highly I recommend the GUTP.

November 2022

(Jack is currently employed as an ECT at one of The GUTP partnership schools).