Why Train with Us?

Start Your Teaching Career with Forest Way ITT

Ready to turn your passion for education into a rewarding career?  At Forest Way, we believe the best way to learn to teach is by being immersed in school life from the very beginning. Our school-based Initial Teacher Training (ITT) programmes give you the opportunity to learn from experienced teachers, develop your skills in the classroom and build the confidence you need to become an outstanding teacher.

With over 15 years of experience delivering successful ITT programmes in partnership with the University of Derby, we have an established track record of supporting aspiring teachers into the profession.

A proven route into teaching

We are proud of the success of our Beginning Teachers. Over the years, our trainees have achieved fantastic outcomes, with all of our Beginning Teachers securing teaching positions following completion of their PGCE training year.

When you train with Forest Way, you’ll benefit from our extensive experience, dedicated support and strong relationships with local schools.

Learn to teach by teaching

Our programmes are designed to put you at the heart of the classroom from day one. Working alongside experienced teachers and supportive mentors, you’ll gain valuable hands-on experience and develop the practical skills needed to become an effective teacher. You’ll gradually build your confidence, take on increasing responsibility and put your learning into practice in a real school environment.

Your training, your experience

We work in close partnership with more than 40 Primary, Secondary and SEND schools across Leicestershire and the surrounding area.  Our extensive network of schools allows us to carefully match trainees with placements that suit their individual needs, subject or phase and career aspirations.  You’ll be part of a supportive school community while gaining experience of different teaching approaches, pupils and learning environments. Explore our Alliance Partners page to discover our network of partner schools.

The perfect balance of theory and practice

School-based training is at the heart of our programmes, but we know that excellent teachers also need a strong understanding of the theory behind effective teaching and learning.  That’s why your practical classroom experience is supported by a robust academic programme, with training delivered through the University of Derby and at the Forest Way training hub one day each week. You’ll develop your understanding of education, pedagogy and professional practice while immediately applying your learning in the classroom.

It’s the perfect combination: learn the theory, put it into practice and grow as a teacher.

Graduate with QTS and a PGCE

Successfully completing the programme will lead to two highly valued qualifications:

Qualified Teacher Status (QTS):

The professional status that enables you to work as a qualified teacher in maintained schools and many other state-funded schools in England.

Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE):

An academic postgraduate teaching qualification recognising your professional and academic development.

Choosing teacher training is a big decision, but you don’t have to take the journey alone. At Forest Way ITT, you’ll be supported to develop your knowledge, skills and confidence every step of the way — from your first day in the classroom to securing your first teaching role.

If you’re passionate about education, committed to making a difference and ready to begin your journey into teaching, we’d love to hear from you.  FWITT@forestway.leics.sch.uk​

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