Subject knowledge enhancement
Subject knowledge enhancement (SKE) programmes are available to support you in your bid to gain a teacher training place. To speak to us about SKE contact us at: ske@northeastscitt.co.uk or call 0191 518 0222 (ext 17161).
What is subject knowledge enhancement?
Subject Knowledge Enhancement (SKE) courses are designed for ITT participants to gain the depth of knowledge needed to train to teach their chosen subject. The free courses are intended for trainees who, without SKE, would be highly unlikely to meet the subject knowledge requirements of the Teachers' Standards by the time their ITT course is complete.
To be eligible for an SKE course, prospective trainees must hold a conditional offer of an ITT place and have the need to complete a SKE course identified. The choice of SKE provider is entirely yours.
Why should I choose North East SCITT?
Our team have ensured that we have a track record of 100% successful completion rate for our participants.
Our SCITT provision is judged to be outstanding and is led by a twice outstanding secondary school, The Academy at Shotton Hall. Our courses ensure that all participants gain the necessary pre-ITT subject knowledge they need to start their ITT year successfully.
We have a dedicated team with substantial SKE experience that includes:
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Current classroom teachers from good and outstanding schools with significant experience in their subject areas.
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An SKE Quality Assurance Team
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An established administration and finance team
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An IT technical support team
What does this mean for you?
Although much SKE is built into training, intense SKE may be required where a deepening of knowledge alongside your related degree is needed.
Experienced and outstanding classroom practitioners within NELT have developed bespoke, online SKE courses to help new entrants to the profession brush up on their subject knowledge before they embark on initial teacher training. Courses are available in French, Spanish, maths, English, computer science, physics, chemistry and biology, RE and primary maths.
Frequently asked questions about SKE
What subjects are available at North East SCITT?
Funded SKE courses:
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Mathematics
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Physics
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Chemistry
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French
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Spanish
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Computer science
Non-funded SKE courses:
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Biology
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English
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R.E. (8 modules/weeks only)
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Primary mathematics
What does a North East SCITT SKE course look like?
Each course comprises of:
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8-16 online modules
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16 hours of directed study per module
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9 hours of independent study per module
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personalised support and guidance from a designated subject mentor (an existing leading classroom practitioner) across the entire course
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formative, diagnostic assessment process comprising of tracking forms and quizzes
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dedicated administration, finance and IT support
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processes to feedback on course quality
In addition, all participants will receive an end of course certificate of completion to confirm they have the required pre-ITT subject knowledge in order to be trained to teach.
How long does it take to complete an SKE course?
Each module comprises a total of 25 hours of study which equates to one week. We offer courses between 8 and 16 weeks in length, however there is flexibility to spend longer, for example through completion on a part time basis. It is also possible to finish the course during an Initial Teaching Training year.
How much will I be paid?
The Department for Education has announced that from April 2024, programmes will only be funded for maths, physics, chemistry, computing and modern foreign languages.
Participants completing an SKE in mathematics, physics, chemistry, French, Spanish or computer science will receive a £175 tax free payment per module, up to £2100 over a 12 module course.