I learned so much during my time on the PGCE Course. My training year was an inspiring and extremely rewarding experience. Although it was challenging, I was supported by both my peers and the experienced teachers and lecturers who I had the opportunity to work alongside. I was able to observe outstanding practice, allowing me to develop my teaching pedagogy further. Training sessions were very hands on and engaging. This provided me with lots of creative ideas for lessons and resources that I could use within my own teaching. Willows is an innovative school, with staff who are passionate about teaching. I feel very lucky to have started my teaching career by completing this course. 

I completed my PGCE course through Willows in 2014 and I could not have asked for a better platform to begin my teaching journey. I have been teaching at Willows ever since and the links they have with schools in the local area and beyond is amazing and gives students an opportunity to gain their first teaching post in schools they know. The course was well structured, gave you all the tools you needed to gain valued experience across all primary settings and, even though it was a very intense and challenging year, it really prepared me for my NQT year. The knowledge that was shared by current teachers was outstanding and all the course leaders were never too far away if I needed a helping hand. Their guidance throughout the year was second to none and I couldn't recommend a better way to start your life in teaching.

The Schools Direct programme with Staffordshire University provided me with, what I feel was, the best start to my teaching career. Every step of the way, I was surrounded by knowledgeable and enthusiastic practitioners who offered support and guidance. Experiencing best practice first-hand was invaluable in helping me to develop my own teaching style and allowed me to begin my NQT year with confidence. 

The Willows Schools Direct Programme provided me with the tools I needed to develop a solid foundation to my Primary teaching career. The programme offers an incredibly well-rounded approach, underpinned by years of teaching experience from those who are evidently experts in their respective subject and educational fields. This is turn provides all students with a firm understanding of sound pedagogy to take forth into their teaching careers. The content, as well as being thoroughly enjoyable, employs a consistently practical approach that covers a broad spectrum of the facets of primary education and pedagogy. Placements throughout the course offer the opportunity to impart valuable knowledge and skills acquired, which are well-supported to guide students every step of the way through their course. If you are interested in a postgraduate primary education programme that offers a balanced and engaging approach to teacher training, supported by experts, I would strongly recommend the Willows Primary Schools Direct course.

Teacher training at Willows has changed my life: I have been given the privilege of being able to be part of a team where my job feels more like a hobby - something I thoroughly enjoy - rather than a necessity. The training I have received has allowed me to develop a secure understanding of the pedagogy behind great teaching and learning, and therefore means that I continue to learn and develop each and every day. At Willows, I have always been exposed to excellent teaching practice, which has inspired me to want to be the best I can be. Although I won't deny that the first year training is hard work, it is so worth it when you see the smiles on the children's faces when you've prepared them an engaging lesson; the sparkle in their eyes when they realise that they have just learned something new; and the feeling of connection that you have with each and every one of the students that you have the pleasure of getting to know. So, if you're considering becoming a teacher, then just take the plunge! Better still, take it at Willows! 

What a year! The Willows School Direct course has given me fantastic opportunities to experience working in different types of schools and work with and observe a range of dedicated and passionate practitioners, who have inspired my pedagogy. The University days were practical and engaging and provided me with a breadth of creative and innovative ideas and resources, which filled me with confidence when planning, resourcing and teaching lessons. The tutors, and the life-long friends I made on the course, provided ongoing invaluable support and encouragement throughout the year.  I now feel ready to have my own class and look forward to my NQT year.

I have thoroughly enjoyed every moment of my PGCE journey at Willows Primary School. All staff and mentors are highly experienced and supportive. Beginning your teaching journey can be daunting, but at Willows I instantly felt at ease, which enabled me to grow in confidence and really get stuck in! Being at willows is like being part of a big family.

At Willows, I was provided with many opportunities to observe outstanding practice by all practitioners, through varied ages and subjects. Which was important as I had a holistic experience. This enabled me to reflect upon my own teaching and progress through the incredible support of the school throughout my journey.  

I will continue to reflect upon my experiences as I continue into my NQT year!

I have just completed my School Direct Placement with Willows and feel that being part of this programme has definitely enhanced my PGCE experience. Attending sessions at Willows enabled me to observe incredibly creative practices within a truly Outstanding school. In turn it has allowed me to consider the impact of my own teaching pedagogy and to help guide my personal development.  The sessions were very practical; providing valuable ideas and resources that could be immediately utilised within my teaching practice. In addition, it provided the opportunity to create a network of contacts with whom I can continue to share ideas and best practice ready for my NQT year.

The Willows PGCE Schools Direct Course has been challenging, exhilarating and thoroughly rewarding.   It has challenged my thinking, my learning and created a desire to continually improve my pedagogy.   I have found working with creative, passionate and dedicated practitioners exhilarating, who have been extremely supportive during my PGCE year.   I have witnessed outstanding teaching enabling me to develop my skills and improve my confidence to teach.  This journey has led to me securing my first teaching position and I look forward to an equally exhilarating NQT Year!

The Willows School Direct course has provided me with an opportunity to work with experienced practitioners and observe outstanding practice within schools. This has enhanced my training and I felt more prepared when it came for the time for me to teach. I felt fully equipped with ideas and skills and how to resource lessons effectively for all of the children to reach their full potential. I have been able to work with colleagues from our local cluster schools which has allowed me to see different ways of teaching and has expanded my knowledge. My confidence to teach has grown and I feel that I have a large support network around me. It has given me the best start to my teaching career and I am glad I got the chance to be a part of this course.

Willows Schools Direct has provided me with the foundation for what I hope will be a long career in teaching. Education should bring out the best in people and I believe Willows has brought out the best in me. At every turn I have been met with support, advice and encouragement. Although the course has been short, I will continue to draw upon the experiences it has provided me with for years to come.