Abstract

This book is an essential companion for all primary trainees in schools, whatever their training route. It provides both practical strategies and opportunities for reflection, so trainees are challenged to critically evaluate their experiences in order to improve their attainment and ultimately succeed in placement. The book covers trainee placements from their onset through to completion, whether on a traditional training route or an alternative such as Teach First. It reflects current educational policy and embraces key national priority areas including behavior, inclusion and the teaching of phonics and early mathematics. Other chapters look at professional partnerships, planning and assessment, employability and, crucially, how to move from good to outstanding teaching.  Case studies enliven the text and present a range of perspectives for consideration, while critical questions engage the reader and promote a deeper understanding of the text.

Catriona Robinson is a principal lecturer in primary Initial Teacher Education (ITE) at the University of Worcester. As a tutor she has supported both undergraduate and PGCE trainees and has worked in placement settings with them. In addition she has developed training programmes for school mentors, been the Primary Partnership Manager and Acting Head of Primary Strategic Partnerships investigating new and more creative placements for trainees. She has recently taken on the role of Assessment Only Route Lead for Primary and Secondary.

Colin Howard is a senior primary lecturer in Initial Teacher Education (ITE) at the University of Worcester. He has been involved in primary education for over 24 years of which 14 years has been as a successful head teacher in both small village and large primary school settings. He has been involved in inspecting schools for the Diocese of Hereford as a S48 SIAS Inspector and has a strong research interest in the influence that school buildings have upon their stakeholders.