Lead School Partner Route
THE SCHOOL - BASED WAY INTO TEACHING
"CLTA was perfect for me, the training provided was brilliant and the support from staff was fantastic and it made me feel at ease straight away. I would recommend CLTA to people who are considering getting into teaching because you are able to have a lot of time in school which is amazing for development and progression and then you are provided with training which consolidates this learning." Holly Wetherall |
We are proud to work with the University of Chester to deliver the new Initial Teacher Education (ITE) programe - Primary PGCE Lead School Partner Route with QTS (replacing School Direct). This is an exciting school based training route for graduates and career changes interested in primary school teaching. We have an excellent reputation for delivering high quality innovative training which is practical, relevant and up to date. We are there to support our Associate Teachers every step of the way and you will soon feel part of the CLTA "family"!
"CLTA is a very supportive programme for trainee teachers. Even through Covid, there was always someone available for advice and support. The training provided was excellent, and I got a lot from it. I was given lots of resources for every subject, so feel very well-equipped for my new venture as a Primary School Teacher." Sam Shimmin" |
This course enables you to work and train in the classroom, supported by experienced mentors and teachers
Whether you have just completed your degree, or have been working in a career for many years, the Lead School Partner route could be the package for you. This is a great way to gain the qualifications and practical skills you need to become an outstanding teacher.
The programme consists of:
- 120 school based learning days across 2 schools
- 11 academic learning days led by the University
- 35 training days to improve subject knowledge across the curriculum/professional skills
- 4 Intensive Training & Practice Weeks – a mix of university and school based training
- 4 Intensive Focus Weeks concentrating on Phonics, SEND, Maths and Science
Each Associate Teacher will be allocated an experienced Professional Mentor to guide and support them through the programme, ensuring they set high standards for themselves and the children they teach.
Steve Meredith, the CLTA QA Lead Mentor will also meet with you each half term.
Finally, the University will appoint a University-Based Teacher Educator Mentor for further support and guidance.
Later in the year, we help with the ECT job application process and interview techniques. Many of our ATs secure jobs before the completion of the programme in the summer term, a number secure jobs in their placement schools. Please visit the CLTA website to read testimonials from previous ATs.
CLTA keep in touch with many Associate Teachers during their teaching journey as we deliver the 2 year ECT training and further Leadership Programmes. Thus delivering “the golden thread” in professional development training.
Please note, we do not offer visa sponsorship for international applicants.
Placement Schools:
- Kelsall Primary & Nursery School (Lead School)
- Mill View Primary & Nursery School
- Witton Church Walk CE Primary School
- Hartford Primary School
- Tattenhall Park Primary School
- Tarporley CE Primary School
- Darnhall Primary
- Broomfields Junior School (Warrington)
- Lostock Gralam CE Primary School
- Bradshaw CP School (Warrington)
- Chester Bluecoat CE Primary School
- Bunbury Aldersey CE Primary School
- Eaton Primary School
- Hartford Manor Primary School
- Tarvin Primary School
- Kingsley St- John's Primary School
- Upton Westlea Primary School
- Byley Primary School
- Lower Peover CE Primary School
- Hermitage Primary School
Information Events
You are very welcome to meet up with some of our present group of Associate Teachers to ask them about the programme and working with CLTA. We can arrange this during one of our face to face training days or remotely.
Alternatively, why not join us at one of our informal ITE information events? They take place from 6pm on Microsoft Teams:-
- Wednesday, 6th November 2024
- Wednesday 4th December 2024
- Wednesday 15th January 2025
- Wednesday 26th February 2025
To register, please email carolefarrell@cheshirelta.co.uk. Alternatively email for a one to one discussion at any time.
“Twelve months ago embarking on a change of career was a huge risk that, thanks to CLTA, has proved to be the best career decision I have made. Whilst completing the School Direct training with CLTA has proved to be challenging it has also been hugely rewarding. I have received excellent training with subject specialists in a variety of areas along with opportunities to experience different learning environments and work with outstanding teachers. CLTA and their partner schools provide supportive placements that help to motivate and encourage students through what is a demanding process. These opportunities have helped me to look towards my NQT year with confidence knowing I have had the best possible start to my teaching career”. Caroline Willis |
WHAT ARE WE LOOKING FOR IN A CANDIDATE?
- Friendly, approachable and have a positive outlook
- Organisation and time management skills
- A passion for teaching and learning
- A creative and innovative approach
- The ability to reflect on and develop good practice
We want all our Associate Teachers to be successful, fulfilled professionals who can make a difference.
"Working as a teaching assistant it was my headteacher who encouraged me to apply to CLTA, and I am so glad I did. I have received fantastic support from day 1 and despite all the challenges of the year the training has been excellent, and I feel so much more confident being in a classroom now." Lindsey Esling |
If you are interested in applying for a position as an Associate Teacher with CLTA please follow this link https://www.apply-for-teacher-training.service.gov.uk/
Some of the benefits of training with CLTA:
For more information, please contact Carole Farrell, Operations Director at carolefarrell.cheshirelta.co.uk.