We aim to create a training environment where every trainee feels welcome, valued and supported. We take time to get to know you as an individual and we work closely with our partner schools to make sure your needs are understood. Our training includes a strong focus on inclusion, equity and professional behaviours. We encourage open communication and want trainees to feel confident to share concerns or ask for help at any point during the year.

Portsmouth SCITT is committed to being an actively anti-racist organisation. This means we do not simply hope trainees feel they belong — we work intentionally to create conditions where belonging is the norm.

Our commitment includes:
• Embedding anti-racist practice across our curriculum, mentor training and partnership agreements.
• Challenging discriminatory behaviour or bias and taking decisive action where concerns are raised.
• Working with schools that demonstrate inclusive, representative and equitable practice.
• Providing individualised support, including confidential conversations with a member of the leadership team should you wish to discuss your experiences.
• Continuously reviewing our provision, informed by trainee feedback, evidence and sector guidance on race equity.

You will be joining a partnership that recognises the value of diverse perspectives and actively works to ensure you feel safe, respected and able to thrive.

At Portsmouth SCITT, we choose to work with schools that demonstrate a clear commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging for all members of the community — including LGBTQ+ staff and pupils.

As part of our quality assurance processes, we:
• expect partner schools to uphold inclusive policies and respectful behaviour;
• provide mentor training that emphasises inclusive, anti-discriminatory practice;
• address any concerns quickly and transparently, ensuring your wellbeing and professional safety;
• offer confidential support should you wish to discuss your identity or placement experience.

We are committed to ensuring that every trainee completes their training in an environment where they feel respected, valued and able to thrive.

We encourage trainees to share any access needs so that we can plan suitable support from the start. Reasonable adjustments might include adapted resources, modified tasks, changes to the timetable or physical arrangements in school. We work with you and the placement school to make sure any adjustments are clear, practical and reviewed regularly.

All mentors complete training that covers adaptive mentoring and inclusive practice. Mentors are guided to be reflective, fair and evidence informed. We also quality assure mentoring across our partnership to make sure the support you receive is consistent and inclusive.

Yes. You are very welcome to speak to us in confidence at any stage before or during the course. You can share as much or as little as you wish. This helps us understand your needs and make sure your training experience is safe, supportive and positive.

At Portsmouth SCITT, we recognise that trainees bring a wide range of lived experiences, identities and personal circumstances to their training year. You will never be required to disclose anything you do not feel comfortable sharing, and your personal circumstances will not impact how we assess your professionalism or potential as a teacher.

Our team and mentors receive training in inclusive, non-judgemental practice, with a focus on respectful communication, confidentiality and trauma-informed approaches. If you do wish to share something about your circumstances, you can do so confidentially with a member of the SCITT team, who will listen, support and guide you without judgement.

We will work alongside you to ensure you feel safe, respected and able to thrive, and that your professional identity is never compromised by your personal story.