A degree of success!

Following a veritable 'Ping-Pong' of emails between myself and Teach First, they contacted me on 4th July to advise as follows:

'I understand you were in communication with some of my colleagues recently and I wanted to continue those conversations if you remained interested in applying to Teach First.  The reason being is that we are currently reviewing our subject eligibility criteria and this will consequently impact the commentary provided to you re eligibility to apply.'

I was very pleased to hear that my complaint had begun to have an impact on the criteria for selecting candidates for this training. However, my pleasure has been diminished by a subsequent communication later on the same day, which elaborated that:

'...it is the case that participants offered a position in Early Years teaching will only be placed in London (or neighbouring Kent & Medway) at this time.  Teach First’s expansion into Early Years teacher training is currently in its first year (ie academic year 13/14) of a three year pilot.  As the pilot develops we will assess such things as regional expansion however at this time I am unable to confirm when this might occur and which regions will be impacted.'

Thus, I remain in this situation where I am unable to access Early Years Training for QTS!

I have received more marginally comforting news from a University Co-ordinator as follows:

'..., it really does seem like a tricky one, yet experienced colleagues I have contacted feel that your qualifications are fine.  I realise the HCTS told you your qualifications weren't quite right for them, I don't think you should let this put you off applying again. I am told by Dr Wendy Jolliffe at the University that we should expect to see more Early Years places coming up for School Direct in the next year or two as the numbers grow.  As a University we would be happy to support a School Direct Early Years student but I'm afraid this is really beyond our control as schools manage their student placements by applying for permission to train a certain number of students; they specify the particulars and then bring in a provider, such as the University of Hull, to work with them and provide QTS.  I think you should keep checking the website to see if any Early Years places become available:

http://www.education.gov.uk/get-into-teaching/teacher-training-options/school-based-training/school-direct/applying'

 

This news indicates that further improvements to availability of training may arise over the next couple of years, however this does not guarantee that my need for a Salaried Schools Direct Early Years QTS position will be on offer!

 

I am interested to hear your alternate perspectives.