The first of the Primary cohorts were welcomed to Westwood for the 4 day School Direct Induction event starting on Tuesday 28^th August 2018. We have 77 trainees from 12 partner Alliances, including groups from Derby and London, who engaged with a variety of lectures, seminars and workshops to prepare them for the year ahead. Tutors commented on the high levels of engagement and enthusiasm demonstrated in sessions and there was a lovely buzz around Westwood throughout the week. Early evaluations show that the event was well received by students. Here are a few quotes that summarise the student experience:

 “Overall the content was strong, informative, and well delivered. The staff were so welcoming and friendly which put me at ease”

 “I found the course to be brilliant, every aspect of it was well thought out and helped me to really feel prepared for the road ahead of me”

 “I found the approachability of the staff, and the way their genuine love of teaching shone through, to be inspiring”

 Close on the heels of School Direct Induction, was the welcome to our Core trainees – we have 17 following the Early Years route and 67 on the Primary programme. Students enjoyed a packed timetable starting with an interactive ‘getting-to-know-you’ session, an opportunity to explore the main campus (in the September sunshine) and their first taste of subject sessions. Evaluations at the close of the week included the following perspectives:

 “I always get nervous about starting new things but I've really enjoyed how calming the pace of the week has been”

 “The small personal tutor groups have been good, so we are immediately familiar with our tutor and aware of the support system”

 “I like the emphasis on Reflection”

 “From the first session on each subject, I have learnt so much”