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Teacher training

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The CAM Academy Trust strongly supports the training of new teachers to become qualified members of the teaching profession.

It does this by having its own School-Centred Initial Teacher Training (SCITT) called the Cambridge Teaching Schools Network, CTSN. CTSN SCITT offers a school-based teacher training programme which allows trainees to gain Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) and a Postgraduate Certificate in education (PGCE) with Anglia Ruskin University (ARU).

CTSN SCITT offers full time, part time and salaried courses in the following:

  • Early Years Initial Teacher Training (EYITT): Graduate Employment Based (GEB) – for graduates employed in an early years setting
  • Primary: 5 -11years
  • Primary: 3 – 7 years
  • Secondary: Art & Design, Biology, Chemistry, Computing, Drama, Design & Technology, English, Geography, History, Mathematics, Modern Languages, Physical Education, Physics, Psychology (14-19), Religious Education

Full details of all the courses offered are on the CTSN website.

Initial teacher training with CTSN

CTSN SCITT has been delivering high‑quality, school‑based teacher training since 2010. We work with over 80 schools across Cambridgeshire, West Suffolk and Essex, including those in the Cam Academy Trust. Each year, around 150 trainees train with us across 15 secondary subjects, primary and early years—and 90% secure teaching roles locally.

Why train with CTSN SCITT?

As a school‑based provider, we place trainees in classrooms from day one. This hands‑on approach offers immediate practical experience, supported by expert mentors and a strong network of Senior Tutors, Subject Specialists and peer groups. Trainees develop real confidence, real skills and a deep understanding of school life.

We offer:

  • Full‑time routes: four days a week in school, one day of centre‑based training
  • Part‑time routes: ideal for TAs, with a gradual increase in school‑based time
  • Salaried routes: for unqualified teachers already working in schools (QTS only)

Is teaching for you?

Teaching suits people who are positive, motivated, resilient and passionate about making a difference. It’s a career with purpose, variety and long‑term fulfilment—shaping young lives and supporting their development.

Whether you’re starting your first career or changing direction, CTSN SCITT supports you from application to training and into your first teaching post. For questions or a conversation with our recruitment team, email info@ctsnscitt.org.

Where to start

  • DfE Get Into Teaching – general guidance on school experience, qualifications and routes into teaching
  • CTSN SCITT website – blogs, course routes, eligibility, selection process and event information
  • Find postgraduate teacher training – search Cambridge Training Schools Network, CTSN SCITT (1WO)

You can also speak directly to a Recruitment Lead by attending an event or emailing info@ctsnscitt.org.

The DfE also offers a personalised advice service to guide you through your options and next steps.

Apply through Apply for teacher training on gov.uk and search for: Cambridge Training Schools Network, CTSN SCITT (1WO)

You’ll need to provide:

  • Your qualifications (GCSEs, A levels or equivalents, and degree)
  • Work or voluntary experience
  • Your reasons for wanting to teach
  • Why you’re suited to your chosen subject or age phase
  • Any adjustments you may need
  • Any safeguarding declarations

You can write up to 1,000 words. Strong applications are typically 800+ words and show care, accuracy and reflection.

Include:

  1. Transferable skills relevant to teaching
  2. Experience working with young people
  3. Your understanding of why teaching matters
  4. Evidence of research into the role and the curriculum
  5. Relevant activities (e.g., coaching, volunteering, first aid)

Providers want to see genuine passion and awareness of the wider role of a teacher.

You must provide at least two named references who can comment on your suitability to work with children. They should be able to write up to 500 words.

Types of reference:

  • Academic – university tutor
  • Professional – employer or manager
  • School experience – headteacher or mentor
  • Character – from volunteering or community roles

Guidance:

  • If you graduated within 5 years: include an academic reference
  • If you work in a school: include your headteacher
  • If you graduated more than 5 years ago and don’t work in a school: choose any combination
  • Use professional email addresses, not personal ones
  • Do not use family, partners or friends