Our regular ITT Hub meetings bring our students together for training, observations of best practice and the development of their own professional learning community.

• Regular hub CPD sessions whilst on placement
• Training for mentors
• Students placed with exemplary class teachers
• Strong support network across schools
• Many previous students are now ECTs, experienced teachers and leaders within our schools.

CPD sessions take place approximately fortnightly whilst the students are on school practice. This is in addition to their PPA time and scheduled cross phase each week. The first part of each session is tailored to the needs of the students based on their initiatives, evaluations and reflections. This provides an opportunity for students to share ideas, reflect on the week and think ahead. The second part is planned and delivered by lead practitioners within the Federation and is in line with the school’s teaching and learning policy. It is mapped alongside the teaching sessions provided by our university partners. This model aims to bridge the gap between theory and practice. All this is provided in addition to the sessions provided at university – it is an additional layer of support.

The hub was identified by OFSTED, as both innovative, and a model of best practice. Based on their recommendation, this model, originating within Primary Advantage, is being rolled out across London and beyond.

Schools have increased responsibility to offer ongoing in-house CPD to their student teachers. This contributes to their training plan and in turn develops well rounded teachers whose practice is underpinned by educational theory. Students training with Primary Advantage will automatically be enrolled on the ITT Hub programme and if any other schools would like to send students to benefit from this training please email palearning@primaryadvantage.hackney.sch.uk