Stoke Damerel Community College

Click for information about School Direct at Stoke Damerel Community College

Stoke Damerel Community College welcomed visitors from across the South West when it held its first ever School Direct Open Day on 5 December 2012.

The Department for Education (DfE) describes School Direct as a way of enabling schools to "grow their own new teachers" and the College is the only secondary school in Plymouth selected to run the scheme from September 2013.

A replacement for the Graduate Teacher Programme (GTP), School Direct allows schools to train teachers in school in the way they want and applications are open for the College's programme - which is run in partnership with University College Plymouth St Mark & St John (Marjon) .

"Visitors from all over Devon and Cornwall came to experience the family atmosphere of the College," said Mrs Noble, GTP Professional Tutor.

College selected for School Direct

Stoke Damerel Community College School Direct page

"Fifteen potential applicants visited our English, Maths, MFL, Physics and History departments to see what we have to offer the five successful candidates, who will start teacher training with us in September 2013."

The visitors spent time in each department and visitors experienced a variety of lessons with College students.

"They all remarked on the enthusiasm of staff and the hard work they witnessed of the well-mannered students," said Mrs Noble.

'Great success'

Barbara Allmark, Head of ITE at Marjon, was also on hand to offer further guidance regarding the application process and the vital qualities needed to be a successful candidate.

"Her visit highlighted the supportive relationship our college has with Marjon," said Mrs Noble.

"It is something we are very proud of and will continue to strengthen in the future. Dr Allmark commented on the incredible feeling of "being at home" whenever she visits Stoke Damerel; something very unique and special.

"The day was a great success and many people left with a buzz about the College and their experience of spending time with us."

The application process is now open and interviews will be held towards the end of January 2013.

Stoke Damerel Community College School Direct page

DfE information on new tests for trainee teachers