‘My journey with Matrix Academy Trust started with Barr Beacon SCITT, where I spent a year gaining my QTS and PGCE. Since then, I haven’t looked back! From day one, it was clear I had made the right choice – the support that was on offer was second to none. Through my training within Matrix Academy Trust, I was able to secure employment within the trust, at Barr Beacon School.

‘This is a trust that ‘does what it says on the tin’ – Education without Exception. I have been given so many opportunities that have helped me to develop my confidence, teaching practice, and ultimately, my career. It is so rewarding to work with so many dedicated colleagues that support you every step of the way – all working towards providing the very best for our young people. If you want to work for a trust where you know you can make a real difference, every single day, this is the place for you.’

‘I joined BBSCITT in 2024-2025 on the Secondary Biology course following an eclectic career through sport science and construction. The course and instructors provided me with the confidence and tools to develop and become the best version of myself. The course covers the subject curriculum, up-to-date pedagogy and world-class behaviour management strategies. Being a part of the SCITT and seeing so many contrasting placements throughout the course of the year, really allowed me to get a comprehensive understanding of what it takes to be a teacher and how I can have such a positive impact on students’ lives within school.

Since becoming an ECT within my placement school I feel confident and empowered to trust in the SCITT training and believe in my own practice. Having developed my classroom ethos in the SCITT course I now embody this in every lesson, creating a safe and positive learning environment for all students that enter my classroom. The support provided by the SCITT both as a trainee and now as an ECT is second to none and I am fully confident in being supported throughout my career as a teacher by everyone involved at BBSCITT.’

I cannot speak highly enough of my experience with Barr Beacon SCITT. From the moment I joined the program, I knew I had made the right decision. The team at Barr Beacon SCITT are not only knowledgeable and experienced, but they are also incredibly relatable and realistic. They truly understand the challenges and rewards of teaching and provide a true footstep into the world of education. One of the standout aspects of Barr Beacon SCITT is the unwavering support they provide. They are always there to offer guidance and advice, and they work with you to determine what is best for your individual goals. This personalised approach is what sets them apart from other teacher training programs.

I also cannot stress enough the value of the links to the teaching profession that Barr Beacon SCITT provides. They are incredibly well-informed and have invaluable connections that have helped me in my journey as a teacher. I feel confident and prepared thanks to the training and resources provided by Barr Beacon SCITT. Overall, I am grateful for my time with Barr Beacon SCITT and would highly recommend it to anyone considering a career in teaching. They have not only equipped me with the necessary skills and knowledge, alongside providing me with a realistic view of the demands of teaching, but they have also instilled a passion for education that I will carry with me throughout my career.

‘The Barr Beacon SCITT course was the perfect way for me to get into a career in teaching, it offered a blend of practical hands-on experience with the support and guidance I needed to succeed. Opting to choose the Barr Beacon SCITT means I was able to learn directly in a school environment and was able to gain that real world experience in a school straight away.

While on the course I was mentored by experienced teachers, and was able to build connections within the schools and the communities that I worked in. The training that was provided at Ryders Hayes School was delivered by experts and they were able to pass on their knowledge and understanding of their specific fields which was unbeatable. This provided that personal touch, with the training tailored for myself who chose the route of 3-7 as well as the other trainees who chose the 5-11 route, by providing the knowledge and information for all areas of a primary school setting. Having finished the course I feel that I would be confident to move up to the higher years within school if I wanted to later in my teaching career.

Choosing the Barr Beacon SCITT course is choosing to immerse yourself in the day-to-day life of teaching, this allows that transition into full time teaching to be as smooth as possible. It’s not just about learning to teach but also how to be part of a dedicated and passionate team and school community that allows you as an educator to shape future generations.’

‘My experience with BBSCITT training course truly prepared me for a successful career in teaching. The support throughout the programme was fantastic—there was always someone ready to guide, encourage, and challenge me to grow. The training itself was brilliant, combining high-quality input with practical strategies I could use straight away. I was also given a wide range of amazing experiences in different class settings, which helped me build confidence and refine my practice. This has benefitted me as after qualifying I became an ECT within the Matrix Academy Trust teaching PE, dance and drama. Thanks to BBSCITT, I now feel fully equipped and genuinely confident stepping into my role as an ECT, knowing I have the skills, knowledge, and experience to thrive in the classroom (and on the field!)’