Your time to teach campaign explained
We are pleased to announce a brand new campaign that has launched just for you… introducing 'your time to teach.'
Like many campaigns to raise awareness, we start with one question: have you considered applying for initial teacher training this September? Many people have but are unsure how COVID-19 has affected what providers offer.
Portsmouth training providers are still welcoming applications for September - so rest assured you can still apply.
However, it is worth considering how our partners have changed the way they operate due to social distancing. We wanted to explain what 'your time to teach' is all about and how providers have adjusted their processes to make everyone safer.
Our mission to recruit continues
Teach Portsmouth still promotes the city as a place to 'live, work and play' as a teacher. This focus has not changed but we have tweaked how we communicate this. As a team, we firmly believe that information is key. Your time to teach is all about:
- Reassuring you that recruitment for teacher training continues for September
- Raising awareness of who is recruiting in Portsmouth
- Highlighting the changes to recruitment and what to expect
Part of the campaign shines a light on the inspirational stories from teachers in Portsmouth during the COVID-19 outbreak.
From keyworker children painting rainbows for the NHS to hula hooping in the playground to boost morale, teachers on the front line are doing an amazing job every day.
Councillor, Suzy Horton, Cabinet Member for Education, Children and Families at Portsmouth City Council told us what the campaign means to her and how important it is:
"While times remain uncertain for many of us, it is important to look ahead and plan for the next academic year. Our initial teacher training providers in Portsmouth do a fantastic job in recruiting the next generation of education professionals. I fully support Teach Portsmouth's your time to teach campaign at such an important time."
Councillor, Suzy Horton, Cabinet Member for Education, Children and Families at Portsmouth City Council
Learn what opportunities are available as a Portsmouth teacher
Changes to the recruitment process
So what has changed? All providers have gone digital. Due to social distancing, face-to-face interviews are no longer possible as we continue to follow government guidelines. Generally…
- Interviews held via a video call are now commonplace. Ask the provider what solutions they are using. It could be Zoom, Skype, Google Hangouts or another alternative.
- Skill tests conducted online will become the new normal. We recommend speaking to your provider as this will differ.
- Physical proof of qualifications are still required before you start in September. Check with your provider on how they will handle this.
While there are some differences between providers, the majority will be working in similar ways.
You can learn more about what they are doing, their top tips for your application and inspirational stories from Portsmouth.
Callum Murphy