I contacted a local Catholic school last week which happens to be the best sixth form school in my area, asking if I could do some classroom observation ready for my PGCE application. I went for a visit today to organise things and was overwhelmed by the help they're offering.
They've suggest that I consider the Graduate Training Programme (GTP), meaning that I'd complete teacher training while working as an unqualified teacher at their school, so I wouldn't have to go back to university and I'd be paid. They're also suggesting that if I did this there may be a job waiting for me at the end, as one of their Physics teachers is retiring. They're going to help me with my PGCE application and personal statement, if I choose to go down that route. They've given me application forms to become a paid exam invigilator and a cover assistant. I'm allowed to go in whenever I want, for as long as I want to, observing and helping in lessons.
I only went to arrange some calssroom observation 
I figured I'd be out in 10 minutes but 2 hours later I left with my head spinning.
I've never been in a school like that in my life. They were the most unbelievebly helpful, enthusiastic and complementary people I've ever had the pleasure to meet. The other school I visted (my old secondary school) was very helpul to but at this school they're going out of their way for me, in every way possible. I'm a little shell shocked by it all.
You must of made a really good impression with them they sound really eager to get you working there as soon as possible.
Its good that even offered to help you with your PGCE also though.
I know its not the same but if i'd of gone to Uni to do Computer Science Degree i don't think i'd be as far down the road as a i am now with my Career than taking the path of doing on the job training and courses.
I feel I've learnt far more on the job than i would of sitting in a classroom.
Which is weird since you might find you learn far more sitting in a classroom, then you would...sitting in a classroom..
