TRAIN TO BE A TEACHER
Why train at Heston?
Heston is a high performing, fully inclusive and comprehensive Community School, with over 1300 students, including 300+ in our Sixth Form. Excellent relationships between staff and students are key to the cohesive and productive community we have built at Heston. In 2022, Ofsted commented:
“Pupils behave exceptionally well in lessons and listen carefully to teachers' explanations. This has a very positive effect on their learning. They enjoy warm and positive relationships among themselves and with their teachers… Pupils’ behaviour and attitudes to learning are exceptional.”
We have a strong track record of training teachers to become effective and confident practitioners, the majority of whom have been appointed to posts at the School. Many teachers have progressed from SCITT and PGCE trainees to leadership roles within the School – you will thrive at Heston.
School Centred Initial Teacher Training [SCITT]
Heston Community School collaborates with London West Alliance and Teach West London, providing training places for secondary teachers.
The SCITT approach is an excellent route into teaching. You will learn how to be a teacher by gradually building your practical experience in the classroom, whilst learning the principles of pedagogy through a university approved programme of study.
At Heston, you will receive high quality support and guidance from our talented, compassionate and dedicated teachers. This is your chance to hone your skills in a highly successful school, recognised as Outstanding in Behaviour and Attitudes, Personal Development and Post-16 Provision by Ofsted.
What makes a successful SCITT?
We are looking for individuals who have a love of their subject and an enthusiasm to share it; individuals who care about children, their well-being and happiness.
You will need to be an effective communicator who enjoys learning and working collaboratively with others. You will also need to be organised, adaptable, reflective and an outstanding role model.
We are interested in hearing from you if you would like to pursue a career in teaching English, Maths, Science, History, Geography, Social Science, French, Computer Science, Business, Economics, Physical Education, Drama, Religious Studies, Design and Technology, Food and Nutrition or Art.
How can I apply?
Applications can be made through the UCAS website – click here for more information.
We have partnerships with London West Alliance and Teach West London SCITT Providers. Further details of subject specific salary, bursaries and scholarships can be found at the ‘getintoteaching’ website.
Please contact Janet MacDonald [jmacdonald@hestoncs.org] if you would like further information on the SCITT. Alternatively, we are happy to facilitate visits so that you can see a school at work.
Meet our SCITTs
Mr M Dye
Teacher of Maths
"I started at Heston as a Maths Academic Mentor, and I was really struck by how every member of staff at Heston was overwhelmingly supportive and friendly. I did not anticipate how polite and kind the students were, and I think that this is due to the culture that has been fostered at Heston, one that focusses on mutual respect and kindness between students and members of staff.
I am now completing Maths SCITT training at the School through the London West Alliance and one day a week at Roehampton University. My experience as a SCITT trainee has been extremely positive, and I am delighted to have been appointed to a permanent post at Heston.”
Ms A Abdillahi
Teacher of Business
“Having been a Heston student myself, I know the high-quality teaching and learning that takes place at the School first-hand. I am excited to start my teaching career and look forward to making a difference in my own community.”
Mrs N Ben Hmida
Teacher of MFL
“Having previously taught Physical Education in Tunisia, I retrained in the UK, as a Teacher of French, via the SCITT route. I felt incredibly supported by my Subject Mentor and the highly experienced Professional Coordinating Mentor. The School is genuinely invested in the progress and success of staff and students alike. We are encouraged to develop and progress; the CPD on offer broadens our subject knowledge and refines our teaching and pedagogy. For me, Heston is a real community, full of people with a real love for the School and its vision.”
Mr R Green
Teacher of Psychology & Enrichment Coordinator
“I completed my teacher training at Heston Community School via the SCITT programme and quickly realised Heston is the right place to allow me to become a successful teacher. I have now been at the School for three years and I have had numerous opportunities to develop my career; I have recently been promoted to Whole School Enrichment Coordinator. I know Heston is a School where I can continue to progress and learn.”