GRADUATES interested in a career in schools and education are being offered a unique opportunity by EES for Schools. The new Step to Teaching programme offers applicants an internship in a primary, secondary or special school to help prepare for a future application to a teacher training programme or further Masters-level study.

Schools across Essex are currently signing up to be part of this new scheme. Graduate Internships will be available across all phases of primary, including early years, and in many subjects in secondary. Opportunities to work with children with special educational needs will also be available. Applications open on 18 April and the first cohort of graduate interns will start in Essex schools from September 2016.

The programme is suitable for new graduates who are still considering their career options and want to get some paid, hands-on experience before committing themselves. Interns will be employed by a school for a maximum of one year and be given a variety of experiences. They will be provided with a mentor, have access to high-quality staff training and be given a development plan to follow which will prepare them for the next step towards a career in school.

Essex County Councillor Ray Gooding, Cabinet Member for Education and Lifelong Learning said: “Step to Teaching is a great way to see if teaching is the career for you. A year’s paid internship and on–the-job training is a fantastic incentive for those considering a career in education. Essex schools are really getting behind this scheme so why not see if it’s the role for you?”

Successful interns will finish the programme with a wealth of experience and be ready to embark on a Teacher Training Programme with one of the many providers in Essex. Interns may also go onto further education-related, Masters level study. Schools involved in the programme will have the opportunity to train talented graduates in the context of their schools for the benefit of their students.

Nigel Hookway, head teacher at Highwoods Community Primary School, said: “The benefits of joining a graduate intern programme in Essex are many but perhaps the overwhelming factor for me as a serving headteacher is the knowledge that your professional development is in safe hands for now and the future. Coming to Essex at this exciting time in education has many benefits, both professional and personal. Opportunities to work in a Good or Outstanding school in Essex are far-reaching and countywide”.

If you are a graduate looking for your next challenge and think the Step to Teaching Programme may be of interest, visit www.essexschoolsjobs.co.uk for more information, criteria and how to apply. If you are a school that wants to be part of the programme, visit www.EESforschools.org