Schools tell us that students bring enthusiasm, energy and subject expertise to the classroom, and give valuable support to teachers. Some schools report that participating in the Student Associates Scheme helps improve links with further and higher education institutions.
Find out more about the scheme
Some of the benefits to schools participating in the Student Associates Scheme are:
- more teachers involved in mentoring
- improved relationship between the school and the scheme provider, usually a higher education institution
- a positive impact on approaches to teaching and learning
- enhanced or enriched curriculum
- improved links between the school and university subject departments
- a contribution to the school improvement agenda
- a contribution to raising attainment
- students associates develop subject materials to use in schools
- the school develops skills and experience in offering initial teacher training (ITT)
- students bring new ideas to support teaching and learning
- the student placement can benefit support staff
- promotes widening participation
Initial teacher training
Schools participating in the student associates scheme gain opportunities to become involved in delivering initial teacher training (ITT).
The scheme helps schools acquire experience that will assist their bids to become a training school. It also encourages schools to consider offering ITT placements.
Developing partnerships
Schools involved in the student associates scheme find they build better relationships with the other organisations taking part.
The scheme encourages better links between university or college subject departments and ITT training partnerships.
Most scheme providers find that it strengthens their relationship with partner schools and other providers. Over two-thirds of providers believe the student associates scheme has reinforced their relationship with subject and ITT departments in their own organisation.
How can my school take part in the scheme?
Contact your local student associates scheme provider
