At a Glance
- Tasks: Train to deliver outstanding Maths lessons and inspire students to excel.
- Company: Join Ark, a charity transforming lives through education on the Isle of Wight.
- Benefits: Tax-free bursary up to £29,000 and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Be part of a supportive community with excellent career growth in teaching.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives and contribute to educational equity.
- Qualifications: GCSEs in Maths and English, plus a degree or A level in Maths or related subject.
The predicted salary is between 29000 - 29000 € per year.
Locations: The Isle of Wight
Tax free bursary: Up to £29,000
Closing date: Recruitment is running on a rolling basis until places are full - early applications are advised.
Starting: September 2026
“The work you are doing is meaningful and directly impacts the future of the kids in your responsibility, and that’s one of the best feelings in the world.” Kwaku, Maths trainee
About the role:
You will be training to be a Maths Teacher - this is a great opportunity to train to teach outstanding lessons and therefore help pupils achieve excellent academic results in Maths. Join our 15th cohort on our ‘Outstanding’ (OFSTED, 2022) Teacher Training programme this September! Last year saw over 200 trainees join the programme and we are already looking forward to our next cohort, which you could be part of!
About Ark:
Ark is a charity that aims to transform children’s lives through education. In the UK, the strongest predictor of how a child will do at school continues to be what their parents do for a living – but why should this be the accepted status quo? By working in our network at one of our 39 schools, you will be directly making a positive impact on young people’s lives through high-quality teaching and thoughtful consideration of all backgrounds and needs, making educational equity a reality.
About Ark Teacher Training:
Ark Teacher Training (ATT) is a school-based programme offering the perfect mixture of theory and classroom practice to develop you into the best teacher you can be. Because we believe that every child, regardless of their background, deserves to have access to a great education, we work mainly in communities of lower income with a history of academic underachievement. We are very proud to have received our second ‘outstanding’ rating from Ofsted in all categories! There are only a few ITTs in the UK that can say the same. Alongside this, our programme is also incredibly supportive and bespoke, as you will see below.
The Island Free School:
The Island Free School is a mixed, non-selective, non-denominational secondary school based in Ventnor on the Isle of Wight. It is a free school supported by a single academy trust, set up by experienced teachers, parents and members of the local business community. The school opened in 2014 in response to poor academic results on the Island and has proved popular with parents, being oversubscribed in all year groups. The school is smaller than average offering 125 places in each year group, and reached capacity at 625 pupils in September 2018. The school has an excellent pupil to staff ratio and teachers have the opportunity to get to know every pupil.
Key responsibilities:
- To engage in daily professional development activities
- To plan, resource and deliver lessons to the highest possible standard that ensure learning and progress of all pupils
- To provide a nurturing classroom and academy environment that helps pupils to develop as learners
- To help to maintain/establish discipline across the whole school
- To contribute to the effective working of the school
Key requirements:
- Grade C/4 or above in Maths GCSE and English Language GCSE (or equivalent)
- An undergraduate bachelor’s degree or will hold (or equivalent) prior to beginning your Initial Teacher Training
- A degree or A level in Maths / a related subject
- Evidence of a commitment to working with young people
- Experience of overcoming challenges successfully
- Ability to demonstrate consistently high standards of personal and professional conduct
- An aptitude for teaching
Diversity and Inclusion:
Our programme places heavy emphasis on diversity both within recruitment of our trainees and within the training. It’s incredibly important that pupils have a rich and diverse teaching body to learn from; they’re able to see themselves in positions of leadership and authority, while their perceptions and world-views are broadened.
How to Apply:
To apply, please visit our website via the button below. If you’re applying through the DfE, please see our subjects here to ensure you apply for the correct route. For more updated information, you can also find us on social media.
Ark is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people; all successful candidates will be subject to an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service check. Ark Schools are committed to attracting, developing and retaining a diverse workforce, with a broad range of backgrounds, experiences and perspectives.
The Island Free School, Trainee Maths Teacher employer: Ark Teacher Training
The Island Free School, part of the Ark network, offers a unique opportunity for aspiring Maths teachers to make a meaningful impact on students' lives in a supportive and nurturing environment. With a strong emphasis on professional development, a commitment to educational equity, and a diverse teaching body, this role not only provides competitive financial support but also fosters personal and professional growth in a vibrant community on the Isle of Wight.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land The Island Free School, Trainee Maths Teacher
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school! Research The Island Free School and its values. This will help you tailor your conversations during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their community.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current trainees or teachers at Ark. They can provide insider tips and might even put in a good word for you. Plus, it’s a great way to learn about the culture and expectations.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your teaching skills! Prepare a mini-lesson or two to showcase your teaching style. This not only demonstrates your passion but also gives you a chance to shine during any practical assessments.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, you’ll find all the latest updates and resources to help you along the way. Don’t miss out!
We think you need these skills to ace The Island Free School, Trainee Maths Teacher
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Carefully:Before you start your application, make sure to read through the job description thoroughly. It’ll give you a clear idea of what we’re looking for in a Trainee Maths Teacher and help you tailor your application to match our needs.
Show Your Passion for Teaching:In your written application, let us see your enthusiasm for teaching and working with young people. Share any relevant experiences or stories that highlight your commitment to education and how you can make a difference in students' lives.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications:Make sure to mention your qualifications, especially your Maths GCSE and any related degrees or A levels. We want to know that you have the academic background to support your teaching, so don’t hold back on showcasing your achievements!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, you’ll find all the necessary information there to guide you through the process!
How to prepare for a job interview at Ark Teacher Training
✨Know Your Maths Inside Out
Brush up on your maths knowledge and be ready to discuss key concepts. Prepare to explain how you would teach these concepts to students, as demonstrating your understanding of pedagogy is crucial for a teaching role.
✨Show Your Passion for Teaching
During the interview, let your enthusiasm for teaching shine through. Share personal anecdotes or experiences that highlight your commitment to education and working with young people. This will help the interviewers see your genuine interest in making a difference.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions about classroom scenarios, such as how you would handle disruptive behaviour or support struggling students. Think of specific examples from your past experiences that showcase your problem-solving skills and ability to create a positive learning environment.
✨Research the School and Its Values
Familiarise yourself with The Island Free School's ethos and values. Be prepared to discuss how your teaching philosophy aligns with their mission to provide high-quality education and promote diversity and inclusion within the classroom.