Cumbria Education Trust recently came together to celebrate the achievements of its 2026 Initial Teacher Training cohort as they reached the end of their training programme.

The celebration gave trainees, mentors and members of the CET Initial Teacher Training team an opportunity to spend time together away from the classroom, reflect on the journey they have shared and recognise everything the cohort has accomplished.

There was also plenty of friendly competition through a range of games and activities, along with time to share memories and celebrate the friendships and professional relationships formed throughout the programme before saying goodbye.

Delivered by Cumbria Education Trust in partnership with Ambition Institute, the school-centred programme allows trainees to develop their skills through a combination of expert-led training and extensive experience in the classroom.

Throughout the 11-month programme, trainees spend most of their time within one CET or partner school. This gives them the opportunity to become a valued part of a school community while gradually putting their academic learning into practice.

Each trainee is supported by an experienced mentor who provides regular one-to-one guidance, encouragement and feedback. Trainees also benefit from evidence-informed professional development, subject or phase-specific training and opportunities to learn alongside colleagues from across the cohort.

Successful completion of the programme enables trainees to achieve Qualified Teacher Status alongside a Postgraduate Certificate in Education, helping them to begin their teaching careers with the knowledge, experience and confidence needed to make a positive difference.

We are incredibly proud of everything our 2026 trainees have achieved. Their dedication, resilience and commitment to supporting children and young people have been inspiring to witness throughout the year.

The completion of their training marks the end of one important chapter, but it is also the beginning of an exciting new journey. As our trainees take their next steps into the teaching profession, we wish each of them every success in their future careers.

Thank you for being such an important part of the CET Initial Teacher Training community. We cannot wait to see the difference you will make in classrooms, schools and communities across Cumbria and beyond.

Could teaching be your next step?

CET offers school-centred Initial Teacher Training opportunities across both primary and secondary education, giving aspiring teachers the chance to gain hands-on classroom experience with the support of experienced teachers and mentors.

Applications for the September 2026 programme have now closed, but expressions of interest are open for September 2027 ahead of applications opening in October 2026.

Discover more and register your interest on our Train to Teach with CET page.