<![CDATA[Saffron Teaching School Hub News Feed - Initial Teacher Training news]]> https://www.saffronteachingschoolhub.net%2Fnews%2F%3Fpid%3D36%26amp%3Bnid%3D10 Juniper Education Content Management System (CMS) Version: 4.5 (junipereducation.org) Wed, 4 Mar 2026 13:27:45 GMT Wed, 4 Mar 2026 13:27:45 GMT <![CDATA[ Celebrating the Success of the 2026 Mentor Conference ]]> https://www.saffronteachingschoolhub.net/news/?pid=36&nid=10&storyid=227 On 3 February 2026, over 80 mentors from across the Eastern Region joined our annual Mentor Conference, a dynamic virtual event exploring the theme of 'AI in Education: Ethics, Tools, and Practice'. The conference brought together colleagues from Initial Teacher Training, Early Career support, and wider school leadership, creating a rich and collaborative professional learning environment.

]]> Wed, 4 Mar 2026 13:27:45 GMT https://www.saffronteachingschoolhub.net/news/?pid=36&nid=10&storyid=227 <![CDATA[ Congratulations to the Class of 2025! ]]> https://www.saffronteachingschoolhub.net/news/?pid=36&nid=10&storyid=192 The 'Class of 2025' trainees with our Lead Partners CTSN SCITT, Mid Essex ITT and West Essex SCITT have been awarded QTS and have enjoyed some well-deserved celebrations. Congratulations from Saffron Teaching School Hub and good luck to all as they embark on their new roles as fully qualified teachers! 

]]> Mon, 21 Jul 2025 11:56:17 GMT https://www.saffronteachingschoolhub.net/news/?pid=36&nid=10&storyid=192 <![CDATA[ FIPC: Celebrating Success - Reaccredited ITT provision in Harlow ]]> https://www.saffronteachingschoolhub.net/news/?pid=36&nid=10&storyid=191 Saffron Teaching School Hub is delighted to announce that Forest Independent Primary Collegiate (FIPC), an established and respected provider with over 30 years of experience delivering Initial Teacher Training, has been re-accredited by the DfE. Their programme, led by Dr. Helen Tyler FCTT, FRSA, engages schools, teachers and trainees across Essex, with training hubs in Harlow and Redbridge.

]]> Tue, 17 Jun 2025 08:59:32 GMT https://www.saffronteachingschoolhub.net/news/?pid=36&nid=10&storyid=191 <![CDATA[ Get into Teaching: Strategic Collaboration to Inspire a Generation ]]> https://www.saffronteachingschoolhub.net/news/?pid=36&nid=10&storyid=189 Saffron Teaching School Hub has been leading a project to inspire the next generation of teachers.

Working alongside the Greater Essex Careers Hub, and our regional Hub partners Chafford Hundred TSH and Unity TSH, we’ve developed a guide for 14-18 year-olds designed to showcase the exciting rewards and benefits of this extraordinary profession, and map out the range of routes young people can follow on their pathway into teaching.

]]> Thu, 19 Jun 2025 11:05:25 GMT https://www.saffronteachingschoolhub.net/news/?pid=36&nid=10&storyid=189 <![CDATA[ Spotlight on Excellence: A Year in Review for Lead Partners ]]> https://www.saffronteachingschoolhub.net/news/?pid=36&nid=10&storyid=188 As the 2024–2025 academic year draws to a close, we’d like to take a moment to celebrate the remarkable work of our three Lead Partners for Initial Teacher Training - CTSN SCITT, Mid Essex ITT and West Essex SCITT. Each has made significant strides in shaping the next generation of educators, offering innovative training, strong partnerships, and unwavering support for aspiring teachers. 

]]> Mon, 16 Jun 2025 11:24:16 GMT https://www.saffronteachingschoolhub.net/news/?pid=36&nid=10&storyid=188 <![CDATA[ Eastern Region ITT into ECT Conference: Stepping Up ]]> https://www.saffronteachingschoolhub.net/news/?pid=36&nid=10&storyid=175 Calling all Initial Teacher Trainees! The Eastern Region Teaching School Hubs are excited to announce this year's ITT into ECT Conference, set to take place on Thursday 22 May 2025 from 4:30pm to 6pm. This online event is designed specifically for trainee teachers who will transition into early career teachers (ECTs) in September 2025.

]]> Thu, 12 Jun 2025 13:05:13 GMT https://www.saffronteachingschoolhub.net/news/?pid=36&nid=10&storyid=175 <![CDATA[ ITT Mentor Conference – From Challenges to Growth: Promoting Wellbeing and Resilience in Mentoring Trainees ]]> https://www.saffronteachingschoolhub.net/news/?pid=36&nid=10&storyid=169 On 6 February 2025, the Eastern Region Teaching School Hubs delivered our annual Initial Teacher Training Mentor Conference to mentors and ITT providers across the East of England. 

In response to the narrative playing out across schools and training providers up and down the country, we wanted to ensure that the focus of our conference resonated with the audience. We understand the significant challenges that trainees face when coming into this profession, and the important role mentors have to play in supporting them to navigate these challenges. 

Promoting wellbeing and work-life balance is an important element of this support, as is helping trainees to build their physical and emotional resilience. 

]]> Mon, 3 Mar 2025 17:18:05 GMT https://www.saffronteachingschoolhub.net/news/?pid=36&nid=10&storyid=169 <![CDATA[ ITT Mentor Conference - 6 February 2025 ]]> https://www.saffronteachingschoolhub.net/news/?pid=36&nid=10&storyid=159 Teaching School Hubs in the Eastern Region are hosting a free online conference for ITT mentors on Tuesday 6 February from 4:00-5:30pm. The theme of this year's conference is 'From Challenges to Growth: Promoting Wellbeing and Resilience in Mentoring Trainees'.

]]> Mon, 13 Jan 2025 16:27:34 GMT https://www.saffronteachingschoolhub.net/news/?pid=36&nid=10&storyid=159 <![CDATA[ DEEP Initial Teacher Training – Programme Launch ]]> https://www.saffronteachingschoolhub.net/news/?pid=36&nid=10&storyid=154 On Wednesday 27 November, the Dunmow Excellence in Education Partnership (DEEP) launched its new Initial Teacher Training programme – a dynamic and innovative pathway into primary teaching.  

This programme offers an opportunity to train and work locally while receiving exceptional support and mentorship across the ten schools in the DEEP network. 

]]> Fri, 6 Dec 2024 09:53:04 GMT https://www.saffronteachingschoolhub.net/news/?pid=36&nid=10&storyid=154 <![CDATA[ Train to Teach in Essex event - 2 December 2024 ]]> https://www.saffronteachingschoolhub.net/news/?pid=36&nid=10&storyid=155 On Monday 2 December 2024, the three Essex Teaching School Hubs (Chafford Hundred South Essex, Saffron and Unity) and Essex County Council hosted a 'Train to Teach in Essex' information event at Beaulieu Park School in Chelmsford, along with representatives from DfE. It was great to have so many local ITT providers there to support our future teachers. 

]]> Fri, 6 Dec 2024 12:58:22 GMT https://www.saffronteachingschoolhub.net/news/?pid=36&nid=10&storyid=155 <![CDATA[ New teacher training programme from the Dunmow Excellence in Education Partnership ]]> https://www.saffronteachingschoolhub.net/news/?pid=36&nid=10&storyid=148 With recruitment into teacher training at the top of the priority list for schools and settings in our region, a local consortium of schools in the Dunmow area has taken innovative steps to tackle this crisis by developing a new teacher training programme.

Run by the Dunmow Excellence in Education Partnership (DEEP), the programme will offer those who live and work in the area start or redirect their careers into primary teaching.

The Primary Initial Teacher Training programme launches in September 2025 and will run at schools in Dunmow, Great Easton, Felsted, Stebbing, Thaxted, Great Bardfield and the Rodings.

The DEEP consortium of leaders recognises the wealth of talent and expertise within their local communities and are committed to providing high quality training and development across their network of schools.

]]> Wed, 13 Nov 2024 11:10:05 GMT https://www.saffronteachingschoolhub.net/news/?pid=36&nid=10&storyid=148 <![CDATA[ Why should my school sign up to the DfE School Experience service? ]]> https://www.saffronteachingschoolhub.net/news/?pid=36&nid=10&storyid=144 At a time when education is experiencing a recruitment crisis, encouraging new entrants to the profession is vital. The DfE runs a Get School Experience platform which seeks to facilitate visits to schools by prospective applicants to ITT courses. As many providers do require evidence of engagement with education, including school visits and lesson observations, this is an important service to offer.

]]> Wed, 25 Sep 2024 08:49:42 GMT https://www.saffronteachingschoolhub.net/news/?pid=36&nid=10&storyid=144 <![CDATA[ Congratulations to the Class of 2024! ]]> https://www.saffronteachingschoolhub.net/news/?pid=36&nid=10&storyid=137 The 'Class of 2024' trainees with our Lead Partners CTSN SCITT, Mid Essex ITT and West Essex SCITT have been awarded QTS and have enjoyed some well-deserved celebrations. Congratulations from Saffron Teaching School Hub and good luck to all as they embark on their new roles as fully qualified teachers! 

]]> Fri, 18 Jul 2025 10:16:15 GMT https://www.saffronteachingschoolhub.net/news/?pid=36&nid=10&storyid=137 <![CDATA[ ITT into ECT Conference resources ]]> https://www.saffronteachingschoolhub.net/news/?pid=36&nid=10&storyid=129 On Wednesday 22 May 2024, the East of England Teaching School Hubs hosted an online 'ITT into ECT' conference for trainee teachers who will become ECTs in September. Resources from this event are now available online.

]]> Tue, 11 Jun 2024 10:46:55 GMT https://www.saffronteachingschoolhub.net/news/?pid=36&nid=10&storyid=129 <![CDATA[ Initial Teacher Training – Pathways to Engagement ]]> https://www.saffronteachingschoolhub.net/news/?pid=36&nid=10&storyid=122 Engaging in initial teacher training (ITT) is vital, as it directly influences the quality of education provided to students and the overall success of schools – but there are so many other benefits for schools, leaders, teachers and pupils. 

]]> Mon, 15 Apr 2024 10:15:39 GMT https://www.saffronteachingschoolhub.net/news/?pid=36&nid=10&storyid=122 <![CDATA[ Initial Teacher Training update – Spring 2024 ]]> https://www.saffronteachingschoolhub.net/news/?pid=36&nid=10&storyid=117 In the continually changing landscape of education, there is a constant which underpins all of our work – the need to identify, develop and nurture talented teachers through a robust initial teacher training (ITT) programme. Our latest update champions the importance of a collaborative, school-led approach to ITT, and sets out some clear pathways to engagement for schools and settings across the Saffron Teaching School Hub area.

]]> Mon, 11 Mar 2024 12:19:11 GMT https://www.saffronteachingschoolhub.net/news/?pid=36&nid=10&storyid=117 <![CDATA[ The new ITTECF - what has changed? ]]> https://www.saffronteachingschoolhub.net/news/?pid=5&nid=14&storyid=114 A single curriculum framework resulting from a review of the Core Content Framework and the Early Career Framework was launched by the DfE on 30th January 2024. On 13th February 2024, we held a briefing about the new ITTECF to look at what has changed.

]]> Wed, 14 May 2025 16:59:00 GMT https://www.saffronteachingschoolhub.net/news/?pid=5&nid=14&storyid=114 <![CDATA[ ITT Mentor Conference resources ]]> https://www.saffronteachingschoolhub.net/news/?pid=36&nid=10&storyid=106 On 6 February 2024, Teaching School Hubs in the Eastern Region hosted a free online conference for aspiring, new and existing ITT mentors, on 'The Science of Learning'. Resources from this event are now available online.

]]> Mon, 12 Feb 2024 15:00:26 GMT https://www.saffronteachingschoolhub.net/news/?pid=36&nid=10&storyid=106 <![CDATA[ ITT Regional Engagement Audit – Outcome Review ]]> https://www.saffronteachingschoolhub.net/news/?pid=36&nid=10&storyid=103 In September, the DfE asked Teaching School Hubs to audit schools within our area to determine their levels of engagement in teacher training. This audit will help the DfE build an accurate picture of ITT engagement regionally and nationally.

Our sincere thanks to those schools who responded to our School Engagement in ITT survey.

]]> Thu, 8 Feb 2024 15:57:04 GMT https://www.saffronteachingschoolhub.net/news/?pid=36&nid=10&storyid=103 <![CDATA[ New ITTECF launched on 30th January 2024 ]]> https://www.saffronteachingschoolhub.net/news/?pid=5&nid=14&storyid=101 A single curriculum framework resulting from a review of the Core Content Framework and the Early Career Framework was launched on 30th January 2024. The DfE have responded to feedback from schools and Teaching School Hubs particularly with respect to SEND, mentor capacity, subject specificity, duplication of content and progression from one year to the next.

]]> Tue, 10 Dec 2024 12:19:02 GMT https://www.saffronteachingschoolhub.net/news/?pid=5&nid=14&storyid=101 <![CDATA[ ITT Mentor Conference - 6 February 2024 ]]> https://www.saffronteachingschoolhub.net/news/?pid=36&nid=10&storyid=96 Teaching School Hubs in the Eastern Region are running a free online conference for ITT mentors on Tuesday 6 February from 4:00-5:30pm.

]]> Mon, 13 Jan 2025 11:26:18 GMT https://www.saffronteachingschoolhub.net/news/?pid=36&nid=10&storyid=96 <![CDATA[ DfE Initial Teacher Training information for schools ]]> https://www.saffronteachingschoolhub.net/news/?pid=36&nid=10&storyid=90 The Department for Education has produced a slide deck to support schools in understanding the recent changes to Initial Teacher Training and how this might affect them. The DfE, ITT providers and Teaching School Hubs know what an important role schools play in training teachers and are keen to ensure schools are informed and ready to implement these changes that come into play for 2024-25 delivery.

]]> Fri, 8 Dec 2023 12:11:36 GMT https://www.saffronteachingschoolhub.net/news/?pid=36&nid=10&storyid=90 <![CDATA[ Initial Teacher Training update - November 2023 ]]> https://www.saffronteachingschoolhub.net/news/?pid=36&nid=10&storyid=88 There has been a lot of change in the Initial Teacher Training landscape recently; here we provide a summary of the role of the Teaching School Hubs and the benefits to schools of engaging in ITT.

]]> Mon, 20 Nov 2023 10:41:42 GMT https://www.saffronteachingschoolhub.net/news/?pid=36&nid=10&storyid=88 <![CDATA[ 'Get into Teaching' event - 7 December 2023 ]]> https://www.saffronteachingschoolhub.net/news/?pid=36&nid=10&storyid=80 Teaching School Hubs in the Eastern Region are running a free online 'Get into Teaching' event on Thursday 7 December 2023 from 4:30-6:00pm.

]]> Thu, 16 Nov 2023 16:43:11 GMT https://www.saffronteachingschoolhub.net/news/?pid=36&nid=10&storyid=80 <![CDATA[ Initial Teacher Training update - July 2023 ]]> https://www.saffronteachingschoolhub.net/news/?pid=36&nid=10&storyid=75 Teaching School Hubs have been asked by the DfE to take a strategic role in ITT from September 2023 which will include mapping school engagement in Initial Teacher Training and supporting ITT providers. There are also several changes which will impact on mentoring that schools need to be aware of.

]]> Tue, 3 Oct 2023 16:01:06 GMT https://www.saffronteachingschoolhub.net/news/?pid=36&nid=10&storyid=75 <![CDATA[ ITT into Early Career Teacher event ]]> https://www.saffronteachingschoolhub.net/news/?pid=36&nid=10&storyid=76 In May, Teaching School Hubs in the Eastern Region hosted an online 'ITT into ECT' conference for primary and secondary trainee teachers moving into their ECT year. Resources from this event (slides and video recording) are now available to view on our website.

]]> Tue, 3 Oct 2023 16:02:16 GMT https://www.saffronteachingschoolhub.net/news/?pid=36&nid=10&storyid=76 <![CDATA[ How can schools support recruitment and retention by investing in and developing their mentors? ]]> https://www.saffronteachingschoolhub.net/news/?pid=36&nid=10&storyid=71 Key motivating factors leading to teaching as career are having an effective training programme. A school-based mentor supports trainee teachers for approximately 80% of their week, providing valuable models, guidance, and support.

]]> Tue, 3 Oct 2023 16:02:46 GMT https://www.saffronteachingschoolhub.net/news/?pid=36&nid=10&storyid=71 <![CDATA[ Mentor conference with Deans for Impact ]]> https://www.saffronteachingschoolhub.net/news/?pid=36&nid=10&storyid=69 On 9th March, Teaching School Hubs in the Eastern Region hosted an online conference for primary and secondary ITT and ECT mentors, in collaboration with Deans for Impact. The conference focused on the principles of the science of learning and how mentors can support novice teachers to apply these principles in the classroom.

]]> Tue, 3 Oct 2023 16:03:56 GMT https://www.saffronteachingschoolhub.net/news/?pid=36&nid=10&storyid=69 <![CDATA[ Initial Teacher Training update - February 2023 ]]> https://www.saffronteachingschoolhub.net/news/?pid=36&nid=10&storyid=61 Saffron Teaching School Hub has been working hard to support our region’s Initial Teacher Training providers, potential new teachers, and their mentors. We are committed to finding solutions to teacher supply for our region.  

]]> Tue, 3 Oct 2023 16:04:26 GMT https://www.saffronteachingschoolhub.net/news/?pid=36&nid=10&storyid=61 <![CDATA[ Support and development for mentors ]]> https://www.saffronteachingschoolhub.net/news/?pid=36&nid=10&storyid=51 Mentoring is a must for trainee and early career teachers. Great mentoring propels new teachers forward in their careers - whereas poor mentoring can crush confidence and cause them to leave the profession.  

]]> Tue, 3 Oct 2023 16:04:52 GMT https://www.saffronteachingschoolhub.net/news/?pid=36&nid=10&storyid=51 <![CDATA[ NPQ in Leading Teacher Development - bespoke for Initial Teacher Training providers ]]> https://www.saffronteachingschoolhub.net/news/?pid=36&nid=10&storyid=55 Saffron Teaching School Hub is excited to announce the launch of Teach First’s NPQLTD focusing on initial teacher training.

]]> Thu, 19 Oct 2023 11:47:53 GMT https://www.saffronteachingschoolhub.net/news/?pid=36&nid=10&storyid=55 <![CDATA[ Leading the way on Initial Teacher Training ]]> https://www.saffronteachingschoolhub.net/news/?pid=36&nid=10&storyid=46 Saffron Teaching School Hub is delighted that so many of the Initial Teacher Training (ITT) providers in our region were successful in the recent ITT accreditation process. This is testimony to the high-quality teacher education happening in our local area. We are confident that this successful accreditation process will support the continued supply of trainee teachers in our region.

]]> Tue, 3 Oct 2023 16:05:20 GMT https://www.saffronteachingschoolhub.net/news/?pid=36&nid=10&storyid=46 <![CDATA[ Initial Teacher Training accreditation process and collaborative working ]]> https://www.saffronteachingschoolhub.net/news/?pid=36&nid=10&storyid=37 In May, the outcomes of round 1 of the Initial Teacher Training accreditation process were shared. Saffron Teaching School Hub is working closely with the East of England Regional ITT Network to ensure support for all our ITT providers, offering bespoke training sessions on sections of the accreditation bid and working collaboratively on a regional mentor training proposal that providers can add to their mentoring section.

]]> Tue, 3 Oct 2023 16:07:35 GMT https://www.saffronteachingschoolhub.net/news/?pid=36&nid=10&storyid=37 <![CDATA[ Initial Teacher Training update - April 2022 ]]> https://www.saffronteachingschoolhub.net/news/?pid=36&nid=10&storyid=29 Saffron TS Hub would like to take this opportunity to thank our local schools for their continued commitment to Initial Teacher Training. We have been so impressed with schools’ engagement and support for ITT during the last two turbulent years - trainees have been welcomed in schools and well supported by their mentors.

]]> Tue, 3 Oct 2023 16:08:07 GMT https://www.saffronteachingschoolhub.net/news/?pid=36&nid=10&storyid=29 <![CDATA[ Mentor conference - 2 March 2022 ]]> https://www.saffronteachingschoolhub.net/news/?pid=5&nid=5&storyid=23 On 2 March 2022, Teaching School Hubs in the Eastern Region are hosting an online conference for mentors. This event will be hosted by the Saffron, Alpha, Chafford Hundred, Cambridgeshire & Peterborough, Julian and Unity Teaching School Hubs.

]]> Tue, 3 Oct 2023 16:08:39 GMT https://www.saffronteachingschoolhub.net/news/?pid=5&nid=5&storyid=23 <![CDATA[ ITT Market Review response ]]> https://www.saffronteachingschoolhub.net/news/?pid=36&nid=10&storyid=17 Initial Teacher Training Market Review response from the Saffron, Alpha and Chafford Hundred Teaching School Hubs.

]]> Tue, 3 Oct 2023 16:09:12 GMT https://www.saffronteachingschoolhub.net/news/?pid=36&nid=10&storyid=17 <![CDATA[ Train to Teach event - 2 December 2021 ]]> https://www.saffronteachingschoolhub.net/news/?pid=5&nid=5&storyid=10 The Saffron Teaching School Hub runs regular online Train to Teach events, in collaboration with the Chafford Hundred Teaching School Hub and the Alpha Teaching School Hub. Our next online Train to Teach event will take place on Thursday 2 December from 4:30-6:00pm.

]]> Tue, 3 Oct 2023 16:09:44 GMT https://www.saffronteachingschoolhub.net/news/?pid=5&nid=5&storyid=10 <![CDATA[ ITT to ECT event - 21 June 2021 ]]> https://www.saffronteachingschoolhub.net/news/?pid=5&nid=5&storyid=8 On Monday 21 June 2021 the Saffron Teaching School Hub, Alpha Teaching School Hub and Chafford Hundred Teaching School Hubs hosted an online event for trainees starting their ECT year in September. 

]]> Tue, 3 Oct 2023 16:10:19 GMT https://www.saffronteachingschoolhub.net/news/?pid=5&nid=5&storyid=8 <![CDATA[ Train to Teach event - 26 May 2021 ]]> https://www.saffronteachingschoolhub.net/news/?pid=5&nid=5&storyid=9 On 26 May 2021, the Saffron Teaching School Hub, Chafford Hundred Teaching School Hub and Alpha Teaching School Hub hosted an online 'Train to Teach' event featuring ITT providers across Essex and Suffolk.

]]> Tue, 3 Oct 2023 16:10:50 GMT https://www.saffronteachingschoolhub.net/news/?pid=5&nid=5&storyid=9 <![CDATA[ Mentor conference - 24 Febuary 2021 ]]> https://www.saffronteachingschoolhub.net/news/?pid=5&nid=5&storyid=5 The Saffron Teaching School Hub and the Chafford Hundred Teaching School Hub are hosting a free online Mentor Conference on Wednesday 24 February 2021 from 4:00-5:30pm. 

]]> Tue, 3 Oct 2023 16:11:25 GMT https://www.saffronteachingschoolhub.net/news/?pid=5&nid=5&storyid=5 <![CDATA[ Train to Teach event - 14 December 2021 ]]> https://www.saffronteachingschoolhub.net/news/?pid=5&nid=5&storyid=3 Registration is now open for our free online Train to Teach event on 14th December 4-6pm.

This online 'Train to Teach in Essex' event will be hosted by the Saffron Teaching School Hub and the Chafford Hundred Teaching School Hub and will feature speaker Cat Scutt from the Chartered College and ITT providers in Basildon, Braintree, Brentwood, Castle Point, Chelmsford, Epping Forest, Harlow, Maldon, Rochford, Southend-on-Sea, Thurrock and Uttlesford. 

]]> Tue, 3 Oct 2023 16:11:59 GMT https://www.saffronteachingschoolhub.net/news/?pid=5&nid=5&storyid=3