The latest trainee teachers have graduated from the Castleman Learning Network, which is part of the Dorset-based Castleman Academy Trust of schools.

Five newly qualified teachers are excited to be establishing their own classrooms in local schools and beyond. The training centre was set up by Rhonda Moore, CEO of Castleman Academy Trust, to offer first class teacher training to graduates.

More than 60 teachers have trained with CLN – completing PGCE and QTS qualifications – since it was granted Teaching School status in 2010.

Lou Evans, director of the Castleman Learning Network, said:

“We have great relationships with schools from Ferndown to Swanage, where our students can train. And the Castleman Academy Trust has five schools and may of our graduates have joined them over the last few years."

“We are expanding our training programmes by launching a part-time route in January 2025. This is designed to provide opportunities for trainees who are balancing teaching aspirations with family and working life."

“We are currently working closely with our university colleagues to develop a number of apprenticeship routes into teaching. We are partnered with the University of Worcester and we have a lot of experience to draw on and which the students benefit from.”

Rhonda Moore said:

“As well as wanting the best education for the children in our schools I also want to encourage people into teaching and give them the best start."

“Castleman Learning Network brings a new cohort of teachers through each year and the intention is to grow it and bring more people into the profession.”

The network has been based in Bournemouth but from next term is moving to new training facilities in Poole.

Castleman Academy Trust’s schools are: Broadstone First and Middle schools, Ferndown First and Middle schools and Parley First School.