University students
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 university student:
- Gain a unique and genuine insight into teaching
- Broaden career options and experience
- Raise aspirations and achievements of pupils
- Receive free professional training
- Free CRB Check
- Enhances CV
- Make a difference to young lives
- Earn £600 tax free on completion of your full 15-day placement.
What are the placement subjects?
The subjects supported are Physics, Chemistry, Maths, Design and Technology and ICT.
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. 83% of university students were more interested in pursuing teaching as a career after the placement. Teachers that mentored university students during their placements stated they felt 93% of them helped to raise pupil aspirations.
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
You can also find more information about the scheme on the TDA website: www.tda.gov.uk/sas.aspx
To apply for the Student Associates Scheme, please download this application form
FAQs
How much time do we spend in schools?
Associates spend a total of 15 school days (3 working weeks) to complete a placement.
Do we get trained for the placement?
The University of Brighton provides comprehensive free professional training. The training takes place during evenings to avoid clashing with student study commitments.
Do we get paid for the scheme?
Student Associates who have satisfactorily completed the 15-day placement receive a £600 tax free bursary.
What year of study do I have to be in?
You can be in any year of study to apply for the scheme, but usually the majority of participants are second year students.
What if I am not studying one of the required subjects?
You do not have to be studying an exact placement subject at degree level. However you should be studying a related subject area, or have completed a required subject at A-Level.
