Train with us

Heckmondwike Grammar School is now accepting School Direct teacher training applications for the 2024-25 academic year.

An outstanding education system cannot exist without outstanding teachers. Similarly, outstanding teachers can only exist as a result of outstanding training, underpinned by high-quality and professional support. 

Heckmondwike Grammar School (HGS) is a lead provider of school centred teacher training. We have extensive experience in delivering a rich programme of study that prepares the next generation of teachers for the education sector. 

We work in partnership with the Kirklees and Calderdale SCITT to guide trainees to achieve their qualified teacher status (QTS), together with the University of Huddersfield to offer trainees the option of a post-graduate certificate in education (PGCE). 

Our programme takes place in a supportive and inspirational school environment, where trainees develop the necessary skills to implement effective, purposeful and challenging lessons to ensure all learners flourish. 

 Why learn to teach through School Direct? 

There are several pathways one can choose to become a qualified teacher. We believe the school centred approach is the most rewarding experience available for aspiring teachers. Our trainees: 

  •  Learn from high-quality and experienced subject specialists, who mentor them throughout their training. 
  • Gain practical classroom experience from day one. 
  • Experience the culture of our school as a valued member of staff. 
  • Learn how to push high-achieving children to the limits of their ability. 
  • Experience working within a diverse and contrasting environment through a second school placement. 
  • Engage in a CPD programme composed and delivered by educational thought leaders. 
  • Receive expert guidance in applying and interviewing for that first job in teaching. 

About School Placements 

It is important that our trainees gain experience teaching within two contrasting centres to better understand the different challenges schools present. Throughout the year, our trainees will study with us as a host school with a six-week [approx.] second placement at an alternative institution – usually running from January to February. We work closely with many partner schools within the local area, each offering a unique and diverse experience in contrast to our own. 

Our School Direct Vacancies for 2024-25 

Heckmondwike Grammar School has teacher training vacancies in the following subjects for the 2024-25 academic year: 

English

Maths

Biology  – Link to follow 

 (Bursaries of £28,000 are available for Mathematics ITTs; £25,000 for Biology ITTs; and. English ITTs could receive a bursary of up to £10,000). 

 What are we looking for? 

We are looking for ambitious individuals who are excited by the prospect of working with young people. We also seek autonomous and highly motivated learners with an inherent desire to teach within their chosen field. Our candidates must demonstrate a passion for their subject and possess first-class communication skills, both oral and written. Other essential qualities include integrity, empathy, and a willingness to work hard. Candidates must be driven to contribute to the school’s core values of respect, responsibility and excellence as a minimum requirement. 

 What to expect from our selection process 

Heckmondwike Grammar School work together with the Kirklees and Calderdale SCITT to shortlist and interview candidates. The interview process takes place throughout the duration of a school day. Successful candidates invited to interview are typically required to meet the following criteria: 

 Participate in a formal interview with ITT leaders. 

  • Complete a written task that relates to their chosen subject area. 
  • Complete a numeracy test. 
  • Teach and discuss a short lesson (approx. 20 minutes) to the interview panel. 

Entry requirements 

  • An honours degree in a relevant subject area with a 1st or 2:1 award. 
  • GCSE Maths and English at grade C/5 or above.  
  • An A Level (or equivalent) in a relevant subject area at grade C or above 
  • Comprehensive knowledge within your chosen subject area. 
  • For those with qualifications awarded from overseas, prospective candidates should visit the ENIC (European Network of Information Centres in the European Region) website to determine whether their qualifications are equivalent to GCSE, A Level or Degree. 
  • Clearance in Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) 

How to apply 

Click the links above (Our School Direct Vacancies for 2024-25) that correspond to your chosen subject area to apply. If you would like to discuss a new and exciting career in teaching, please contact our Early Career Coordinator, (details below) he’ll be happy to help.

Nick Stokoe
Early Career Coordinator
[email protected]
01924 402202