The Astra vision for teaching

Astra SCITT (School-Centred Initial Teacher Training) provides outstanding learning opportunities for all.

Our vision is simple: excellence in teacher training. We are committed to our values of collaboration, support and innovation. We aim to do everything with integrity.

Collaboration
Astra is a partnership of over 60 schools across Buckinghamshire and surrounding areas committed to improving educational outcomes. Our training is locally-based, in person and taught by experienced teachers. Partnering with Bath Spa University, we provide both QTS and PGCE training for new entrants in local primary, secondary and special schools. 

Support
Astra provides the 'golden thread' of teacher training, with both QTS/ PGCE training and, through the Astra Teaching School Hub, ECT (Early Career Teacher) training for your first two years as a teacher. 

From the start, we seek to work with you. We invite applicants to state a preference for a particular school as their main placement. We also sort your main and contrasting school placements - we won't ask you to do this.

We have a range of flexible routes into teaching. Most trainees study full time for PGCE and QTS but each year a small number pursue part-time or QTS-only training. We offer bursary-led and unsalaried routes, a number of postgraduate apprenticeships and salaried placements, as well as Assessment Only routes.

Innovation
Our school-centred model prepares you for teaching in our region and beyond, equipped with the practical skills and professional values to support all young people. At the core of Astra's curriculum is a commitment to inclusive professionalism, tackling educational disadvantage and enabling all to thrive.

We develop trainees as reflective practitioners, encouraging new entrants to teaching to think critically, draw upon the best available research evidence and make informed professional judgements. Through school-based learning, trainees work closely with a mentor and other professionals to hone their classroom skills.

Astra's collaboration with local schools, supportive approach to training and innovative curriculum means that whatever your situation, we can offer you a wide choice of routes into teaching.