An introduction from the Revd Simon Cade, Diocesan Director of Education and Discipleship

Children are a gift from God, but they are a gift that doesn’t arrive finished and complete; education is the work of revealing the God-given potential and gift of every person.

We want the best for our children, and part of that is about making sure that we have the best teachers and that they receive the best training and formation.  As a new trainee you may be an experienced professional already working in schools in a different role, or a volunteer or new graduate.  Whatever your starting point, this programme allows you to explore your vocation to teach in a Christian setting so that you in turn can share in the work of revealing the God-given potential of our children.

The Diocese of Truro shares in the work of education across Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly. We work directly with 44 church schools and academies, and also through our parishes with many more community schools. School Direct is designed to provide an alternative pathway to a career as a teacher, the training is based in the church school community but it will be a strong foundation for teaching in any sector, supported by an experienced local University with extensive schools-based partnerships across Devon and Cornwall.

This School Direct programme, run on our behalf by King Charles primary School in Falmouth, brings together these elements of excellence in initial teacher training. Expert school based practitioners combined with a great University partner bring education pedagogy and up to date research into a school based setting. We nurture talent and provide the essential classroom experience and reflective practice that will lead to outstanding results.

The Diocese of Truro School Direct Programme leads to the award of Post Graduate Certificate of Education (PGCE) including Masters credits and a Church School Certificate with Qualified Teacher Status. The diocese provide a dedicated host school and mentor with a contrasting placement school, both within the diocesan family of School Direct providers.

We can’t guarantee employment in our schools at the end of the course, but your training, skills and church school experience should put you in the strongest position to apply for available posts in church schools or community schools here or across the country.

To teach is one of the most important jobs in our society. This programme recognises that vital role and promotes excellence, but also sets it alongside the Christian story of love, service and hope. When Mary recognised the risen Lord on the first Easter Day she called him “Rabbouni” which means teacher. To teach well is Good News in more than one way.