1. Who are we? Teach First is an educational charity in its 6 th year funded by the Government, schools and business sponsors. Ranked 9 th in the Times Top 100 Graduate Employers (the only charity to ever be in the top 10) Teach Firsts mission statement is: To address educational disadvantage by transforming exceptional graduates into inspirational and effective teachers and leaders in all fields Since 2003, Teach First has placed over 1500 teachers in 118 schools across London, the North West and the Midlands This year Teach First has over 450 unique opportunities for graduates to make a difference across 5 regions in the UK

2. What is Teach First? Unique 2 year structured graduate programme creating inspiring leaders ready to take on influential careers in business, public sector and not-for-profit organisations – or stay in teaching / education Participants gain a formal teaching qualification (QTS) at the end of their first year and complete their Newly Qualified Teacher year (NQT) by the end of their second year. Combine your experience as a paid teacher with our an innovative business skills and leadership training course Bespoke leadership development programme run through Teach Firsts industry supporters which combines skills training, internship and networking opportunities and mentoring by sector professionals which complement leadership skills gained in the classroom Teach First encourages graduates to recognise teaching as one of the few professions where they can really make a difference in society, while also developing transferable skills in a highly challenging environment that set them apart early in their career

3. Why Teach First? To change lives and make a difference Responsibility and accountability from start Chance to contribute to the academic progress and social welfare of hundreds of children in disadvantaged circumstances wider community as a whole Motivate, enthuse and inspire children in the classroom on a daily basis – an incredible life changing experience! To accelerate your career Develop your leadership potential set your self apart Supported by 80 prestigious employers who recognise and value the sophisticated skills and experiences developed through Teach First Deferred Entry schemes with Accenture, JP Morgan, Civil Service Fast Stream and Deloitte Flexibility to keep your options open and make informed career decisions based on your experiences in school and through summer projects with our supporters Become an ambassador Join a network of engaged Teach First ambassadors equipped to lead in any sector and affect change in education

4. What are Teach First schools like? Teach First schools have the following characteristics but none the same: At least 30% pupils on free school meals (indicating deprived socio-economic circumstances), and/or, Less than 25% A*-C grades at GCSE Other common characteristics include: Complex urban environment High staff turnovers Diverse ethnic backgrounds High numbers of EAL pupils - speaking English as an Additional Language

5. What we look for? Graduates with a 2.1 or higher*, 300 UCAS points, and who have sufficient subject knowledge of the subject they wish to teach: A or B at A Level (2 A Levels at A or B to teach Science) and degree knowledge is preferable Graduates who can display (and provide examples of) the following competencies: Humility, empathy and respect Interaction Knowledge Resilience Planning and Organisation Leadership Self- evaluation Problem-solving * We do accept a very small proportion of graduates with 2.2s who have made exceptional applications.

6. What are the deadlines for applications? For applications to teach Geography, MFL and Citizenship the deadline is: Friday 5 th December 2008 ** (handful of opportunities in Primary for students with language qualifications) For all other subjects please apply before: Friday 3 rd April 2009 Early application is recommended, already full for History and almost full for Art and Religious Studies