Growing Together SCITT Spotlight - Harvey Austin

Welcome to the next instalment of our SCITT Beginnings blog. Here we speak to Harvey, a Science trainee at Darwen Aldridge Community Academy, about his motivations for applying for the SCITT and his experiences so far.

Why have you decided to train to teach?

I have always loved science (especially physics) and the opportunity to share my knowledge and spark that love in the younger generations excites me greatly. Combine this with believing that everyone should have the opportunity to better understand the world around them- teaching became a ‘no-brainer’.

Why did you choose Aldridge education?

A core reason for choosing Aldridge is their statement ‘we believe that education should be stimulating, enriching and enjoyable’ and this aligns with my outlook on learning greatly. Great education really does ‘empower both children and adults’ and helps shape both their futures.

What has been a highlight of the course so far?

ITAP (Intensive Training and Practice) was extremely enjoyable for me. The chance to experience what teaching can be like amongst a group of like-minded individuals was invaluable. The inclusive environment and safe space to practise compiled with expert tutors generated a knowledgeable, enthusiastic and motivating atmosphere.

Can you give an example of where you have implemented some of the learning from the course materials in your classroom?

I have used lots of the course materials within the classroom as I have begun to teach more frequently. One of the most useful materials is the ‘setting high classroom expectations’ within Brightspace. It showed me that setting the standards high (yet achievable) gives the students something to work towards and feel accomplished when they achieved it. Furthermore, it emphasizes the ‘classroom inclusivity’ that really does encompass a lot of what needs to be done as teachers. There are too many useful materials I have used from the course to start listing them all.

What support have you received from lead mentor/mentor/other staff/other trainees?

I have received support from all the above. My lead mentor is always prepared to help and has regular check-ins with me 1 to 1 and the rest of the SCITTs on the course every week. They are always prompt to reply and their knowledge and support is invaluable. The same can be said from my mentor. It really feels like they are with me every step of the way and really committed to helping me achieve the best I can from the learning I am being provided. The regular meetings and target settings provide clear goals that I can constantly work towards to improve. The staff in my current setting are all happy to help and I feel they want me to achieve the best I can throughout my time at the school. They are always happy to answer any questions I have and allow me to take part in their lessons and provide invaluable feedback to me as and when they can. Lastly, I am in contact with two other SCITT trainees within my school and we have become rather close. The sense of ‘being in it together’ has really come through and we all feel confident to talk about our practice and work with each other in order to better our own experiences.

Harvey will be continuing his training until Summer 2025. Best of luck to him for the rest of his studies!

Does this sound like the next step in your career? Find out more information about our SCITT course and how to apply here: www.gov.uk/apply-for-teacher-training and choose Aldridge Education as a provider. We’ll then contact you directly with information about the next steps in the application process or get in touch with a member of the Growing Together team at GrowingTogether@aldridgeeducation.org.

Find out more

You will find the full course information on the Teach First website: https://www.teachfirst.org.uk/train-to-teach-locally

Further information about funding and support is also available here: getintoteaching.education.gov.uk/funding-and-support    

Any other questions will be answered in our SCITT Brochure