Initial teacher-training

Initial teacher training was established as a project to build partnerships between the university and museum/library/archive venues in the region.

The Museums Libraries and Archives Council (MLAC) were keen to develop links with teachers at the earliest stage in their careers, and the university was looking to provide opportunities for student teachers to investigate learning in non-school settings.

Five university teacher education tutors spent up to two days in a particular museum, library or archive setting, exploring its potential for learning and for student teacher placements.

MLAC staff attended a number of meetings at Canterbury Christ Church University to discuss the project, culminating in an opportunity to meet the student teachers who would be placed with them.

Student teachers prepared for the placement by designing a research focus for an assignment on learning across and outside the curriculum.

Benefits

• "I was surprised by how enthusiastic I was about getting involved - now I am raring to do my own exhibition in class. I saw potential in everything - spaces, objects, paintings - if you can use if creatively." (Participant)
• "It was a real eye-opener. It helped us to realise that we are quite forward thinking and we are thinking 'outside the box' more than we realised. I've really stepped outside some boundaries this week." (Staff)