A Subject Knowledge Enhancement (SKE) Programme is designed for candidates to gain the depth of knowledge needed to train to teach in their chosen subject. An SKE can be offered to a candidate who has a conditional offer of an Initial Teacher Training place, that is a condition to complete an SKE Course in their chosen subject. The need for an SKE is identified by the school or the University of Reading during the recruitment process.

https://getintoteaching.education.gov.uk/how-to-apply-for-teacher-training/subject-knowledge-enhancement

The Department for Education (DfE) currently funds SKE courses in five secondary subjects:

• chemistry
• computing
• languages
• mathematics
• physics

Selection criteria

Selection criteria

Our main selection criteria include:

1:  The ability to communicate effectively in spoken English

2:  The ability to communicate effectively and accurately in written English

3:  Evidence of subject knowledge and any other particular requirements of the field of study

4:  Enthusiasm and interest in the particular field of study

5:  Intellectual qualities and the ability to reflect creatively and critically

6:  Positive attitude to, and involvement with, young people including an understanding of the importance of establishing respectful, supportive and constructive relationships

7:  High expectations of young people and a commitment to their achievement

8:  Sense of the scope of a teacher’s professional skills and responsibilities

9:  Ability to cope well in highly pressurised and demanding contexts

10:  Commitment to collaboration and co-operative working with colleagues

11:  Commitment to teaching and the School Direct programme

12:  Positive attitude to equal opportunities and towards education in and for a plural society.

Selection methods

The recruitment process is a rigorous and thorough process, designed to get the best match of applicant to the places available. 

Shortlisted applicants will be invited for interview at one of the Teach Maidenhead schools. A representative from the University of Reading may also attend for part of the process. During this process, applicants will undertake a range of activities to judge their suitability for a career in teaching. These may include: 

a)  An introduction to Teach Maidenhead training courses

b)  A tour of the school and opportunity to meet key staff

c)  At least one written activity

d)  A group activity or student panel, where appropriate 

e)  A formal interview with a Senior Leadership Team member and possibly a representative from Reading University.

Qualities

Teach Maidenhead is looking for trainees who can potentially take up paid teaching posts in one of our partnership schools once training is completed.  Our young people deserve the best teachers. Teach Maidenhead is therefore looking for these qualities in its trainees:

* Keenly interested in young people and how they learn.

* Enthusiasm and interest in your specific field of study.

* The ability to communicate effectively in spoken and written English

* Evidence of subject knowledge.

* High expectations of young people and a commitment to their achievement.

* The ability to reflect creatively and critically.

* Evidence of understanding the importance of establishing respectful, supportive and constructive relationships

* Sense of the scope of a teacher’s professional skills and responsibilities.

* Coping well under pressure. 

 * Commitment to teaching, teamwork, collaboration and co-operative working within the School Direct Programme.

We are looking for ambitious trainees who are passionate about their subject and have the desire to share their knowledge, passion and enthusiasm with young people of all abilities in the secondary age range.  Previous experience working with young people is important, although it does not need to be paid work and might be helping to coach a sports team, drama club or working within a youth club.

Ideally, applicants will have undertaken a short period (up to five days) of observation and experience within a Teach Maidenhead school, although experience of observing in another classroom environment or work in another school would also be beneficial.  The personal statement should include the details of when and where the experience has been, or will be, undertaken.