Teachers
What is the Student Associates Scheme (SAS)?
The SAS is an initiative from the Training and Development Agency for Schools, which aims to raise the aspirations of school pupils and to broaden the appeal and understanding of life and prospects at university, particularly for pupils in areas or demographics characteristically unlikely to consider progression to Higher Education.
The Scheme offers university students a 15-day placement in a school in Sussex where they have the opportunity to gain experience of teaching whilst assisting the lead teacher and pupils wherever possible.
Students can bring up-to-the-minute subject knowledge to support teaching and learning, providing a fresh opportunity for pupils. The school and the university student receive a bursary at the end of the placement.
Benefits for the school or college:
- Helps to raise attainment levels
- Improves pupils' motivation
- Develops professional links with ITT providers
- Improves links with universities
- Promotes widening participation in Higher Education
- Contributes to teachers' continuing professional development (CPD)
- Gives staff experience of mentoring, opening up promotion opportunities
- Receive a £225 bursary per completed 15-day student placement.
What are the placement subjects?
The subjects supported are Physics, Chemistry, Maths, Biology, Design and Technology, ICT, and Modern Foreign Languages. Schools must accept at least one student into the Priority 1 subjects (Chemistry, Physics and Maths) before accepting more students in the other subjects.
Who is the SAS aimed at?
The scheme is aimed at university students registered on a full-time or part-time programme of study leading to an undergraduate degree (other than Qualified Teacher Status), HND, foundation degree or postgraduate award, including masters and doctorates. The programme of study should be related to one of the placement subjects, however A-Level (or equivalent) qualifications will also be considered.
When does the placement take place?
The scheme placements are completed within a local secondary school in June and July.
What did last year's participating teachers and university students think about the Scheme?
Feedback collected from last year's Scheme found that 87% would recommend SAS to a friend. Teachers that mentored university students during their placements stated they felt 93% of students helped to raise pupil aspirations. 83% of university students were more interested in pursuing teaching as a career after the placement.
Where can I get more information?
If you would like to register your interest or discuss the scheme in further detail please contact:
Daniel Hawkins, SAS Project Co-ordinator
Email: .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
Tel: 01273 644750
