Spend three weeks in the classroom... official MoneySavingExpert.com discussion

Former_MSE_Natasha

This is a special discussion as part of the

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Spend three weeks in the classroom


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learning_to_drive

The question is, does this include those studying at the OU?

niknakb

I dont understand

sweetpeas_2

me neither...

Edinburghlass_2

It relates to this part of Martin's article...

Spend three weeks in the classroom.

If you're at a higher education institution in England, you can get £600, and a great experience, by completing a three week teaching placement in an English primary or secondary school during university summer and Easter holidays. This is via the

Student Associates Scheme, which is run by the Training and Development Agency for Schools (TDA) who receives funding from the Government. And, as the money's a bursary, the cash is tax-free.

There's no age limit for applicants, nor does it matter what year of study you're in. Criminal record checks will be made, but the TDA meets this expense. Applications are taken all year around so to find a school local to you, visit the TDA's school search database and contact the school directly. Summer placements must be completed by the end of July.
How much? £600 for a three week placement that must be completed in full to get payment.
Find out more: Join the discussion and read other MoneySavers' top suggestions or add your own in the Spend Three Weeks In The Classroom thread.

Former_MSE_Natasha

learning_to_drive wrote: »

The question is, does this include those studying at the OU?

Use this link to find a list of participating universities.

Nomee

According to my understanding if you are studying at university level you can apply. Open University or any other form of part time education is also part of education system. Yes it is in the list (link in previous post).

emmaglet

I have just been reading this and wondered if anyone could help me out with a few things. The placement needs to be completed by July if I want to do it this year - is it too late to apply now?

And do I have to be considering a teaching career? I feel bad applying mostly just for the money.

Former_MSE_Natasha

emmaglet wrote: »

I have just been reading this and wondered if anyone could help me out with a few things. The placement needs to be completed by July if I want to do it this year - is it too late to apply now?

And do I have to be considering a teaching career? I feel bad applying mostly just for the money.

Yes, there are many summer places left, although it depends on the university you attend and the area in England you want the placement to be. Also, these placements MUST be completed by the end of July (and remember, placements are three weeks in length), so applications need to be made asap.

Use this link to search the availability.

The experience will give you a taste of what a career in teaching would be like. Obviously if you're adamant you'd never want to work in a classroom, it may be more considerate not to take part so spaces remain for people who may opt for this career path. But then again, the experience may sway your opinion, so you won't know unless you try

lawrenzini

This scheme is designed to provide a viable way for people interested in a career in teaching to test the water, without being out of pocket. It isn't a way for people to make a few hundred quid and advocating it as such is irresponsible.

If the scheme gets filled up with people who are only there for the money and have no interest in becoming a teacher then it is likely to be stopped in future. I feel is a great shame as this looks like a genuinely good idea.

learning_to_drive

I hasten to add to the above comment and state that it's meant for those that are looking at teaching as a career.

I believe you have to show some proof that you are interested in a career in teaching, and isnt just a easy £600.