Partnership in Practice: Collaboration at the Core

Introduction

Almost from our beginnings, Coventry University’s National Institute of Teaching and Education (NITE) has worked with the Creative Education Trust, an established trust of 17 secondary and primary schools spread across England. They are a valued partner organisation, and Claire has played a leading role in the development of this fruitful collaboration. In this blog, she reflects on this partnership, professional growth, and our shared commitment to excellence in education.

An established collaboration

My experience of working with NITE spans almost a decade, during which time I have held roles at both school and trust level, managing teacher training applications as a Lead Partner. I have found their approach to initial teacher training to be collaborative, solution-focused, and flexible — with partnership being the cornerstone of their planning and delivery.

A partnership built on flexibility and shared goals

NITE offers teacher training opportunities in a broad range of subject specialisms, facilitated through digital platforms that allow them to be conveniently accessed throughout England and beyond. Their experienced mentoring team ensures that trainee teachers feel well-supported in their studies, with an emphasis on practical development and professional growth.
Personalised partnership through dedicated account management

Working with an assigned account manager fosters a personal approach to partnership and allows lead partners to feel instrumental in shaping the direction of ITT initiatives. This collaborative approach has been particularly evident in the mapping of ITT Apprenticeship frameworks.

Pathways to teaching for all: removing barriers to QTS

The portfolio of apprenticeships — from teaching assistant to teacher  — is sequenced in a way that supports progression to QTS, regardless of a candidate’s starting point. These pathways create opportunities for many school staff for whom the lack of an honours degree previously presented a barrier to teaching.

Growing through coaching: my professional development journey

On a personal level, I have developed my own skills through the NITE Level 5 Coaching Professional Apprenticeship. This course, delivered over a 15-month period, ignited my passion for coaching, which I further progressed through the Level 7 Executive and Senior Leadership programme.

As coaching becomes a greater focus in our organisation’s learning and development offer, we are pleased to be exploring the potential for a bespoke cohort of the Level 5 Coaching Professional to meet the needs of our staff.

Looking ahead: continuing our shared commitment to excellence

Working with NITE and Coventry University has allowed us to support learning and development at all levels across our Trust. We look forward to exploring further opportunities to work in partnership and to continue supporting our staff in reaching their professional ambitions.

If you would like to find out how NITE can support teacher training and development in your organisation, please contact us to arrange a conversation.