Introduction to Primary School Teaching

This book gives primary student teachers the professional knowledge required to succeed in the classroom and an understanding of how to develop their teaching skills throughout their teacher training course.

Taking the key themes of the ITT Core Content Framework, this comprehensive book covers every major aspect of contemporary teaching and supports new teachers in reflecting on what good pedagogic practice looks like and how to develop this through observing and learning from expert colleagues. 

Case studies, based on real examples provided by headteachers and other experts, offer the chance to explore day-to-day teaching issues in real life. Critical tasks and question guides challenge readers to deepen their practical knowledge. 

This is essential reading for all students on primary initial teacher education courses including university-based (PGCE, BEd, BA with QTS) and school-based (School Direct, SCITT, Teach First) routes into teaching.

Much to the surprise of anyone who meets him now, when he was a young man, Colin Forster spent two years working as an outdoor activities instructor and it was during this time that he developed an interest in education.  He began his primary teaching career in south west London before moving to Gloucestershire, where he continued to gain school leadership experience.  He is currently a senior lecturer in primary education at the University of Gloucestershire, where he has gained considerable experience of primary teacher education course leadership and in supporting students, at both undergraduate and postgraduate level, with research projects focused on improving practice.  His areas of interest include primary science, behaviour management and action research and he has undertaken research into children’s experience of homework in the primary years. 

Rachel Eperjesi knew she wanted to be a teacher from the age of 5.  However, some rather poor careers advice led her to embark on a medical degree, which quickly resulted in her declaring it ′too messy′ and she decided to follow her heart into teaching instead.  After completing a BEd Hons, Rachel taught in Foundation Stage and Key Stage 1 (also quite messy) in Gloucestershire, as well as undertaking English consultancy for the local authority.  She now works at the University of Gloucestershire, lecturing in primary English and professional studies, as well as currently leading the School Direct PGCE Primary course. Rachel has supported many students, both undergraduate and postgraduate, with research projects focusing on improving their educational practice.