From SCITT trainee to maths teacher – Robert’s journey
Published: Tue 12 May 2026
At The City Academy, Hackney, we are proud to see former SCITT trainees now thriving as qualified teachers within our schools.
Robert trained with us through the SCITT programme in 2025 and is now a Maths teacher at our school, supporting the next generation of students. His journey highlights the challenges, support and rewards that come with training to teach.
“It has been an extremely rewarding journey. Starting by observing expert teachers really helped me understand what good teaching looks like and how I could develop my own practice.”
Like many trainees, Robert found the beginning of the programme challenging, but felt strongly supported throughout. Knowing others were experiencing similar challenges made a big difference, as he didn’t feel alone.
Robert’s inspiration for teaching came from both personal experience and early classroom exposure. He began his journey as a teaching assistant and was also inspired by family members in the profession.
“I have two family members who are teachers and starting as a teaching assistant made me realise I wanted to become a Maths teacher. Seeing students progress is incredibly rewarding.”
Now in his role as a Maths teacher at The City Academy, Hackney, Robert reflects on what he would say to future trainees.
“My advice would be to stay calm and remember there is so much support available. You are not alone and as long as you are progressing every day, that is what matters most.”
Train to teach with us
Our SCITT programme offers a school-based route into teaching, providing hands-on classroom experience from day one alongside expert mentoring and structured support.
Why choose our SCITT programme?
- Gain classroom experience from day one
- Achieve Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) as well as a Post-Graduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) in one year
- Receive dedicated mentor support
- Develop practical teaching skills through hands-on experience
If you’d like to visit one of our family of schools, meet staff and students and learn more about our teacher training routes, City of London Academy Southwark is hosting a school experience day on Wednesday 10 June from 09.00 – 10:30am. Please submit your request to visit via the GOV.UK website.
Start your teaching career today, applications close Tuesday 30 June.