University receives top marks for training primary school teachers
Tuesday, 05 October 2010
Institute of Education student on teaching practice
ÔÇÿIt shows that Reading is the number one place to begin a career in primary school teaching and allows us to confirm the excellent quality of our teaching and our programmes.ÔÇÖ
The University's Institute of Education has received the highest grade possible from Ofsted for its primary school teacher training.
Professor Andy Goodwyn, Director of the University's Institute of Education, said: "We are delighted by these Ofsted inspection results. It shows that Reading is the number one place to begin a career in primary school teaching and allows us to confirm the excellent quality of our teaching and our programmes."
The inspection highlighted the excellent quality of the Institute's provision and said: "To receive Grade one in both the substantive cells in Primary is a fantastic indication of your work and commitment. This is an excellent result and I'm sure you are delighted with this affirmation of the quality of your provision."
Ofsted is the Office for Standards in Education, Children's Services and Skills which regulates and inspects to achieve excellence in the care of children and young people, and in education and skills for learners of all ages.
Helen Bilton, Director of the PGCE primary programme, adds "We are so pleased that Ofsted has recognised the dedication and passion of all our tutors in nurturing the teaching workforce of the future and shaping their hopes and aspirations for the health, well being and success of our citizens."
Naomi Tate first came to Reading as a student in 2002 - eight years on she is still here working at a local school in a profession she loves.
She said: "I decided to study at the Institute of Education because of its reputation as a centre of excellence for education. I chose the Educational Studies with English degree programme as it was the perfect mix of practical and theoretical study.
"One of the best aspects of the course was the amount of time spent training in "Partnership Schools"; the local schools who acted as "host" to the practical part of the training. The University runs a vigorous training programme with local schools, whereby the student is fully supported and mentored as they take their first steps into the teaching profession."