The only college in Birmingham and Solihull rated ‘outstanding’ by OFSTED, JCC has announced theprogramme in partnership with Birmingham City University in a unique offering, which will see course students enrolled both at the college and the university. The programme is designed to support teachers who have industry experience, but lack formal teaching qualificationsas well as those who wish to teach in the post-14 provision, 16+ and adult education.

After a successful pilot year in 2018, JCC met all the standards required by the university to carry out the course which involved rigorous reviews and approval panels. The college will be providing the new two-year programme, which will see successful applicants go onto register for qualified teacher status.

Michael Storer, current DET Student and Religious Studies teacher, comments: “Through the DET course, I’ve learnt different approaches and styles that have been adapted to suit my particular classes. Teachers should always be looking for ways to enhance their practice to improve student outcomes and the course has been a great opportunity for all of my students to gain a tailored classroom experience.”

Commenting on the new DET courses and the partnership with Birmingham City University, Joseph Chamberlain Sixth Form College Principal, Tony Day, said: “Thanks to the introduction of the new DET course, we are able to provide those teachers who have the enthusiasm and experience a platform to gain their formal qualifications in order progress in their careers. We are so excited to be working closely with Birmingham City University on this programme; the collaboration between BCU and JCC ensures consistency and parity for students which we hope will enable them to fulfil their full potential.”

A spokesperson for Birmingham City University adds: “This is an exciting development for BCU Secondary and PCET department. Not only does it build on our existing college partnerships across Birmingham and Gloucestershire, JCC is our first Sixth Form College.”