Marjon forges new partnership with Cornwall Education Learning Trust to elevate teacher training and development in Cornwall

Released: 06.03.24

Plymouth Marjon University and Cornwall Education Learning Trust (CELT) have joined forces to announce a new collaboration aimed at bolstering Undergraduate and Postgraduate education opportunities in Cornwall. The partnership will deliver essential education courses to meet the region’s growing need for teachers.

At the centre of this collaboration lies a robust focus on initial teacher training (ITT) programmes, designed to provide aspiring Primary and Secondary school teachers in Cornwall with comprehensive pathways to excel in their profession. Successful candidates will benefit from the extensive expertise and experience of Marjon academics and CELT's specialist teachers and mentors.  

The ITT programmes will leverage placement opportunities within CELT's network of academies across Cornwall, coupled with mentorship resources from Plymouth Marjon University and its Marjon University Cornwall campus, promising an enriching experience for aspiring teachers. The University is well-equipped to deliver high-level teacher education, having trained educators for over 180 years. 

In a significant move to expand educational horizons, Marjon will offer a level five Foundation Degree in Teaching and Learning, offered at a convenient venue in Bodmin. This part-time course, designed to complement employment commitments, serves as an ideal stepping stone for individuals aspiring to pursue careers in teaching or related educational professions. 

CELT has a pupil-centred approach and focuses on continuous research-informed development to enhance and maintain its academic excellence. The Trust is also renowned for its dedication to nurturing talent and fostering professional growth, aligning with Marjon's mission to empower educators through tailored Master's degree-level courses.  

The strategic partnership between Marjon and CELT is poised to breathe new life into higher education participation and address critical challenges in teacher recruitment and retention. By introducing innovative programmes tailored to Cornwall's unique educational landscape, the collaboration will enhance access to high-quality teachers and school leadership, ultimately enriching the educational experience for Cornwall's children, young people, and communities. 

Giles Freathy, Joint Partnership Lead, School of Education, Plymouth Marjon University , commented: 

"We are thrilled to be working in partnership with CELT to support and serve educational needs in Cornwall. By collaborating closely with schools and stakeholders, we aim to foster inclusive education that empowers individuals and communities." 

Professor Tanya Ovenden-Hope, Dean of Marjon University Cornwall, said: 

“As an active member of the Marjon University Cornwall Professional Advisory Group, CELT CEO Lisa Mannall has seen the contribution our Postgraduate programmes have made, enhancing teacher and school leader practice in Cornwall. Being able to work with CELT and offer high-quality Foundation degrees, teacher training, and Master’s level programmes is a fantastic demonstration of our commitment to Cornwall.” 

Hayley Bissenden, Trust Early Career Teaching Lead at CELT, added: 

“We’re excited to see progress in bridging educational divides in Cornwall, opening doors for more individuals to pursue careers in teaching. At CELT, we are steadfast in our commitment to being a beacon of solution for the communities that we serve.” 

Plymouth Marjon University and its Truro campus, Marjon University Cornwall, invite stakeholders, including local schools, community organisations, and educational leaders, to engage in discussions and explore partnership opportunities. Marjon stands ready to develop bespoke Postgraduate programmes for schools and colleges, delivering them at their Truro campus or across Cornwall. 

Learn more about Plymouth Marjon University here and Marjon University Cornwall here. Explore opportunities at CELT here.