Due to a high level of interest, the Diocese of Truro in conjunction with the University of St Mark and St John, is extending its School Direct Initial Teacher Training Scheme to create two more student places.

The School Direct initial teacher training scheme, is the first of its kind in the country to be organised across a whole Diocese. Following a successful application process which saw all five planned places allocated to high level candidates from across Cornwall, the team decided to build on this interest by seeking funding for two additional places.

Dr Sue Brownlow, who has been advising the Diocese on the setup of this scheme, said: “We have been really impressed with the calibre of applicant we have received for these places. Withmore church schools also keen to take part, we are now delighted to be able to offer two more places on the programme.”

Lead by senior headteachers, the first cohort of students are set to start in September and will undertake training places in schools and academies across the diocese supported by trainee days and conferences at Marjon. To apply for the two remaining places visit the UCAS website www.ucas.com/apply/teacher-training

Simon Cade, Director of Education for the Diocese of Truro, said: “Our schools need a healthy flow of new entrants to the teaching profession, and those in the community who may feel their vocation is towards teaching in a church school environment need ways in which this calling can be expressed and developed.”

Revd Cade added: “Anglican schools in the Diocese of Truro are committed to developing the whole child and to the values of diversity and inclusion. Education is part of the Church’s service, a way of showing God’s love in the communities in which we live and work. Our faith underpins what we do and we are proud to offer Christian-based education to those who make this specific choice, but you don’t have to be a regular churchgoer to train with our schools; all candidates are welcome providing they feel able to support the school’s values. The experience trainees get with our schools will stand them in good stead whether they want to go on to build a career in a church school or a community school.”

There are 44 church schools and academies in the diocese ranging from very small village schools to larger town-based schools, and a range of school-to-school partnerships including several large multi-academy trusts. Trainees will be based at one lead school and will have the opportunity to work in at least one other, different setting during the course of their training year so that they gain a varied experience.

As well as an outstanding general training to become a primary teacher, the trainees will gain specific insight into teaching in schools whose values base is founded on their Christian ethos and distinctiveness.

To apply for the course beginning in September, applications can be made through the UCAS website www.ucas.com/apply/teacher-training

The closing date for the last two training places is Friday, May 29.