Jeremy Charles: A Success Story from SF SCITT
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Jeremy Charles, a graduate of the South Farnham SCITT (School-Centred Initial Teacher Training) program in 2023, has made remarkable strides in his teaching career.
Just a year into the profession, Jeremy has been nominated for Collection Pot’s Teacher of the Year competition, a testament to his dedication and the high-quality training he received at SF SCITT.
We asked Jeremy a few questions about his experience with SF SCITT, how he felt the training prepared him for the start of his teaching career and if his training with SF SCITT played a part in his wonderful nomination.
Why did you choose South Farnham SCITT as your teacher training provider?
I was volunteering in a local infant school where the class teacher had come through the Surrey South Farnham SCITT programme herself. She encouraged an application and went on to be my mentor (and very good friend!) As an outstanding provider I knew I was in excellent hands with SSF SCITT, and being able to train within a supportive school from day one is a gift I will cherish.
What did you like most about the course?
Undoubtedly, building relationships with experienced colleagues and working with the children every day. Everyone I have met has been so kind and generous with their time, which is incredibly precious in a school environment. I felt supported and encouraged all the way through the programme. Each training session was delivered with passion and I was offered feedback and tips to apply into classroom practice the very next day.
What was your overall experience?
I would go so far as saying it was life-changing for me. Training to become a primary teacher has been such a wondrous opportunity and everyday I am embracing something new. Wellbeing was championed from the outset, and working closely with my cohort lead and mentors ensured that I remained on the right path – pausing to celebrate what was going well and encouraging rich, reflective discussion. The second school placement in KS2 was also invaluable. Although I have since remained in KS1, I enjoyed the experience immensely. I am thankful to everyone that has encouraged and guided me on my new career path.
How well do you think the course prepared you for your first year as qualified teacher?
The gradual increase in teaching responsibilities throughout the course of the year ensures that all delegates are best-placed for the next academic term. It is important to mention you are never on your own or starting from scratch. The ECT induction programme is similar to the SCITT course in that it encourages observation, reflection, training opportunities and promotes positive relationships with subject-leaders, SLT and, importantly, continued high-quality mentoring to develop your teaching knowledge and skills.
What are the highlights from your first year of teaching?
There are many standout moments and ‘firsts’ but the real privilege is getting to know the children in class and being a small part of their journey. We laugh everyday and I am fortunate to be their class teacher. There was one particular day back in the depths of winter where we changed the year one classes into four Victorian schoolrooms. The entire, immersive, historical experience was exceptionally powerful and a credit to my colleagues for providing such a unique learning opportunity – even if, for one morning, the boys and girls had separate school yards! The end-of-year assembly was also a wonderful celebration of the children’s progress and I am exceptionally proud of all their achievements.
What does it mean to be nominated for ‘Best teacher of the year’?
It was a surprise to be shortlisted for an award and wonderful news to share with family and friends. I think the impact the children have on my life is far greater than the impact I have on theirs! The role is so varied – one minute you could be teaching javelin and the next you find a live frog on your desk. I am both lucky and grateful to feel part of a strong community with wonderful colleagues who have helped me immeasurably. It really has been a very special couple of years.
Good Luck Jeremy, we are all really proud of you!