School staff involved in the Student Associates Scheme gain valuable experience supporting the students and can be trained as mentors. Schools get a sense of what it might be like to work with trainee teachers, and are better placed to decide if they want to be more involved in initial teacher training (ITT).
Find out more about the scheme
A major benefit for teachers is having an extra pair of hands in the classroom – student associates can help by giving pupils more individual or small group attention, or leading projects covering more specialist topics.
The scheme contributes to staff development – it can improve mentoring skills and promote reflective practice. We also know that staff are benefiting from higher education students’ skills and knowledge in subject areas.
The scheme also benefits school staff by:
- contributing to teachers’ continuing professional development (CPD)
- improving teachers’ contact with tutors from the university
- improving teachers’ awareness of the routes into further and higher education
- opening up promotion opportunities for staff
Staff continuing professional development
The Student Associates Scheme provides opportunities for newly qualified teachers (NQTs) as it enables them to gain mentoring experience. As the student is placed for a maximum of 15 days in a school, it provides an ideal opportunity to gain mentoring experience before they take on the responsibility for a student teacher on a much longer ITT placement. The scheme also develops the skills of existing staff.
Impact on the wider workforce
Taking part in the Student Associates Scheme encourages learning support assistants to consider a career in teaching. It also has an impact on the extended schools remit. Many student volunteer to take part in extended schools activities such as homework clubs, sports clubs or language societies. They can provide help and support for the teachers running the clubs and also bring new ideas, enthusiasm and knowledge.
How can my school take part in the scheme?
Contact your local Student Associates Scheme provider
