Hopeful individuals dive into teaching careers Aspiring teachers and professionals have gained their first taste of a career in education after two successful, free taster sessions.

From defining characteristics of a good teacher to teaching English to speakers of other languages, the sessions introduced 21 attendees to a new way of thinking about the ever-changing education system and how they could become a part of it.

With the objective to raise aspirations for individuals across Cornwall, the ESF funded, Higher Level Skills project, delivered by Truro and Penwith College, has already supported over 600 learners to re-engage in study at a higher level since July 2016.

The most recent sessions on tips to becoming a teacher attracted people of all ages, proving that it’s never too late to change or enhance a career.

ESF Project Coordinator Madeline Richardson was pleased with the success that the project has seen so far.

She said: “We’ve had a lovely couple of sessions around teaching and some really positive feedback. The response suggests that sessions are fun, engaging and very helpful for attendees choosing the next step in their careers. Some learners will now progress on to relevant teaching courses delivered by the College to help take their careers higher. We are also organising a further series of tasters for November, which we will be advertising over the coming weeks.”

By attending a free taster session, eligible learners have also unlocked funding to help support their new career aspirations, receiving a contribution towards the cost of relevant courses at the TEF Gold-rated College.

One attendee was delighted with the content of the session and said: “It was very enjoyable, interesting and helpful, spot on for my needs! Not only that, but it has also given me the opportunity to think about the possibility of accessing teacher training on my own terms.”

Free personalised one-to-one guidance appointments were also offered to every attendee, to discuss and determine his or her individual next steps towards a professional qualification.

The Higher Level Skills project is part of the ESF Widening Participation through Skills Project, which provides free taster sessions to offer learners an insight into the College environment and give advice on how Higher Level Skills courses can help individuals to achieve their ambitions or support the needs of their business.

If you are interested in accessing Higher Level Skills with Truro and Penwith College, please contact success@truro-penwith.ac.uk, call 01872 242711 or visit the website for details: www.truro-penwith.ac.uk/higherlevelskills