FUTURE PRIMARY SCHOOL teachers in Moray can more easily be recruited from within the local community thanks to a new partnership between the Council and Aberdeen University.
Last month Moray Council announced a joint arrangement with Moray College UHI for a one-year course leading to a teaching qualification.
Now the local authority has said the latest agreement will offer an online postgraduate diploma in education for students who will study from their own homes. Structured in a way that allows study to take place alongside other commitments or work schedules, the e-learning course will include face-to-face weekend workshops and collaborative group work.
It will also allow for school placements to help in the development of academic, personal and professional skills required in the teach profession.
Starting early next year, the 18-month study programme will include 18 week placement at a Moray primary school – and will include a guarantee full year as a probationer with the council on the successful completion of the course.
While the closing date for university applications is September 30, application forms for this course should be returned by August 30. Fees for the course are expected to be £1820 over two academic sessions – however, applicants may be eligible for funding from the Student Awards Agency for Scotland.
It is key to acceptance that applicants live in Moray and already have competent ICT skill appropriate to online distance learning. Applicants will also require to have a degree and relevant experience in working with young people either formally or informally.
There is also a requirement that they have Higher English at grade C or above, maths National 5 at Grade C or above, Standard Grade at Grade 2 or above and Intermediate 2 at Grade C or above.
The local authority application form can be obtained by e-mailing janet.cornall@moray.gov.uk and completed application forms should be returned to the same e-mail address by August 30.