Train to Teach

All our secondary academies are partner schools at Think North East.

Think North East is a School Direct initial teacher training provider offering the highest quality training for people choosing to enter the teaching profession.

All schools in the Think North East School Direct partnership share one vision: to ensure we provide the highest quality training possible for people choosing to enter the teaching profession. Regardless of in which schools you train, you will be highly supported in developing as a skilled teacher on your way to a Qualified Teacher Status (QTS).

As our name suggests, we are a partnership with a shared commitment to giving careful thought to all aspects of our initial teacher training programme. We strive to develop teachers who are able to think critically and creatively about their practice in order to make rapid progress in their role as a teacher.

Regardless of where within Laidlaw Schools Trust you train, you will develop your teaching skills and expertise, ensuring you are set up for a thriving and rewarding teaching career.

Visit Think North East’s website to learn more

Why choose to Train to Teach at LST?

Choose where you want to be based

Your placement school has an immense impact on your experiences with the initial teacher training course and your career thereafter. At Think North East, you can take the matter into your own hands and choose a school that is a perfect fit for you. If you’d like to visit one of our schools before applying, please get in touch.

A perfect mix of practice and theory

Looking to step into the classroom from day one? Or spend time plunging into academic theory?

With the School Direct route, you don’t have to choose between the two. Your postgraduate teacher training will be an ideal combination of theory and putting it into practice in a real school setting.

Laidlaw Teaching & Leadership Centre

You can take advantage of our state-of-the-art Teaching and Leadership Centre at Sedgefield Community College, where you can connect with future school leaders, share best practice and learn collaboratively. The £3.2 million centre opened in September 2021, offering teacher trainees the opportunity to learn in the immersive setting of an Outstanding school.

Sunderland University Qualification

After completing your training, you will be awarded a highly-regarded Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) from Sunderland University - a Top 50 UK University.

Receive First-Class Support

In every teaching placement throughout your training, you will be supported by highly experienced professionals (subject mentors) who will help you hone your teaching practice, rather than by university lecturers who may not be as involved in everyday school life.

At Think North East, we treat our teacher trainees as equals and active participants of the community. You will form a lasting network of exceptional teaching professionals, connect with families, as well as witness the impact you are creating on children’s lives throughout your training.