ITaP Weeks

The benefits of the ITAPs programme

There are 4 Intensive Training and Practice (ITaP) experiences which are designed to support trainees understanding of how research and evidence-based teaching theory aligns with delivery and practice in schools.  Each experience will focus on a core area of the Initial Teacher Education (ITE) curriculum and trainees will have the opportunity to deepen their knowledge in the area within a practice-based environment.

Key Features

The key features of intensive training and practice involve:

• expert input – this would typically include:
  • an introduction to the aspect of practice (e.g. questioning, explanations, routine setting, specific behaviour strategies) with an examination and critical analysis of the evidence base underpinning it
  • observations of examples (and potentially selected non-examples) in practice via video or live practice
  • deconstruction of the preceding two areas of expert input with an attention to the detail that has positive (or sometimes negative) impact
• opportunities for trainees to plan and practise ITAP in a low stakes (possibly simulated) environment
• opportunities for trainees to practise in a live classroom context
• expert feedback on, and critical analysis of, the trainee practice, in both contexts - this should include deconstruction of both positive features and areas for further development
• expert feedback that links coherently to the expert input at the beginning of the sequence
• opportunities to apply the aspect of practice in the near future and beyond – ideally in multiple contexts and practice situations

This final point is key in considering what good practice looks like. The purpose is to have a positive sustained impact on practice that is transferable to a range of contexts.

How ITAP is different from the rest of the ITT curriculum and school placements

ITAP should focus tightly on specific, foundational, or pivotal areas of the ITT curriculum. It is an opportunity for careful sequencing of content, so that it is clear why each successive focus for ITAP has been chosen, including how it builds on content previously covered and prepares for the next stages in the training programme.

The intensive training and practice element, in which trainees experience a minimum of 4 weeks  of ITAP.

The ITAP focus areas are:

Currently, we have 6 primary schools and 2 secondary schools which deliver this training.  Associate teachers would be at Chester university for part of the week and 1 ½ days approx. in school with a focus on these areas. 

We would love to hear from schools if you feel you have an ITAP area which is a strength of your school and could host associate teachers.  Please contact: Julie.marriott1@taw.org.uk

Once again, we would like to thank you all for your continued support with ITT and hosting associate teachers through the autumn and spring term.