Student Teacher Training: What You Need to Know

Starting a career in teaching can feel overwhelming, but student teacher training is the bridge that turns theory into practice. Whether you’re aiming for primary, early years, or secondary education, a solid placement gives you hands‑on experience, confidence, and a clearer picture of what everyday teaching looks like.

Why Student Teacher Training Matters

First off, real classrooms are messy, noisy, and full of surprises – exactly the opposite of a textbook. A placement lets you see how lesson plans change on the fly, how children respond to different teaching styles, and how to manage a group when things don’t go as expected. It also shows future employers that you can handle the pressure of a live environment.

At Nottingham Nursery School we focus on early childhood development, so our student teachers get to work with kids aged 2‑5. That age group teaches you patience, creativity, and the importance of play‑based learning. You’ll see how small tweaks – like adding a song or a visual cue – can make a big difference in a child’s understanding.

How to Get the Most Out of Your Placement

1. Pick the right setting. Look for schools or nurseries that match your interests. If you love hands‑on activities, a nursery with a strong outdoor programme is a good fit. If you’re keen on technology, choose a school that uses interactive whiteboards.

2. Set clear goals. Before you start, write down three things you want to achieve – maybe mastering classroom management, designing a themed unit, or learning how to assess early learning outcomes. Review these goals weekly with your mentor.

3. Observe before you act. Spend the first few days watching how the lead teacher structures the day, interacts with children, and handles disruptions. Take notes on what works and what doesn’t.

4. Ask for feedback. After each lesson, request specific feedback. Instead of “Did I do okay?”, ask “How could I improve the transition between activities?” Concrete advice helps you grow faster.

5. Reflect daily. End each day with a short journal entry. Write what went well, what challenged you, and one tweak for tomorrow. Over time you’ll notice patterns and see clear progress.

Our mentors at Nottingham Nursery School are experienced early years teachers who love coaching new talent. They’ll sit with you during lesson planning, model effective strategies, and give you realistic tasks that stretch your skills without overwhelming you.

Remember, student teacher training isn’t just a requirement – it’s a chance to experiment, make mistakes, and discover your teaching style. Embrace the ups and downs, stay curious, and you’ll finish the placement with practical tools that will serve you throughout your career.

Ready to start? Check out our upcoming placement dates, read our student teacher handbook, and reach out to our coordinator for a quick chat. Your future classroom is waiting, and the experience you gain now will shape the teachers you become tomorrow.