NASBTT annual conference examines ITT challenges and opportunities in UK under new Labour government

The National Association of School-Based Teacher Trainers (NASBTT) hosted its annual conference in the UK, offering insight into the state of the initial teacher training (ITT) sector under the new Labour government.

A survey conducted by NASBTT from October 21 to November 15, 2024, gathered responses from 48 members and revealed a mixed outlook. Nearly half (48%, 23 respondents) of school-based ITT providers said they were “quite optimistic” about the future, while 38% (18 respondents) noted it was “too early to say.”

Sector outlook and key priorities

Emma Hollis, NASBTT Chief Executive, opened the conference by discussing the theme, New Thinking for a New Era, which highlighted Labor’s education commitments. These include pledges to recruit 6,500 specialist teachers and relaunch the Every Lesson Shapes a Life teacher recruitment campaign. “These steps signal hope for a stronger partnership between the government and the sector,” Hollis stated.

Despite optimism, challenges remain. NASBTT’s ITT Insights Survey showed ongoing concerns about teacher shortages, financial pressures, and clarity on policy reforms. Hollis noted, “Teacher recruitment remains one of our greatest challenges. Complex issues require nuanced, solutions-focused approaches.”

Progress on key initiatives

Hollis also outlined progress on NASBTT’s manifesto, The Future of Initial Teacher Training. The manifesto emphasizes affordability in teacher training, and a report commissioned by NASBTT and the Universities Council for the Education of Teachers (UCET), Policy Analysis of Student Loan Reimbursements for Improving Teacher Retention, highlighted the potential of financial reforms to improve retention rates.

Additional developments include an increase in tuition fees to £9,535 to maintain financial viability and the relaxation of the 20-hour mentor training requirement, reflecting the capacity challenges faced by schools.
“We’ve also supported the recent rise in tuition fees to £9,535—a necessary step to sustain financial viability. Meanwhile, our advocacy led to the relaxation of the 20-hour mentor training requirement, a decision that reflects the realities schools face in juggling capacity with quality. These wins remind us that when the sector speaks with one voice, we can effect change,” Hollis added.

Ofsted inspections and AI in ITT

NASBTT’s analysis of 2024 Ofsted ITT inspection reports revealed that 97% of inspected partnerships were rated “good” or “better.” Among SCITT (School-Centered Initial Teacher Training) providers, none were rated below “good,” and only 5% of higher education institution partnerships fell short of this standard.

The role of artificial intelligence (AI) in ITT was another key focus. The survey showed that 96% (46 respondents) of participants understood AI concepts, but only 40% (19 respondents) actively used AI tools in training. Reported benefits included time savings, workload reduction, and improved efficiency in lesson planning and curriculum development.

However, concerns persist about AI misuse in assignments and its impact on critical teaching practices. Hollis remarked:

“Those who are using AI report significant benefits, such as saving time, improving efficiency, and enhancing the quality of their work. Generative AI is being used for tasks like lesson planning, curriculum development, and academic support.

“But we must strike a balance between leveraging these tools and preserving critical teaching practices. Our role is to help guide the sector in exploring AI responsibly and effectively, and we are committed to supporting our members as they navigate this evolving landscape.”

Addressing broader challenges in ITT

Hollis discussed the expanding responsibilities placed on schools, which now include addressing societal issues such as mental health and social inequalities. “If we expect schools to function as more than educational institutions, then our training, funding, and staffing models must reflect that expanded mission,” she stated.