A LEADING North-East college has been invited to join latest round of government recruitment to find the next generation of teachers.

Following its success during the first year of the School Direct initiative, Emmanuel College in Gateshead, together with its sister school Bede Academy, in Blyth, has been allocated 19 teacher training places this year.

It means high calibre graduates can learn their craft at the region’s top state secondary school, combined with study to Masters level at Newcastle University.

The programme starting in September 2014 is open for applications now.

A training bursary of £4,000-£20,000 or a scholarship of up to £25,000 is available to graduates dependent on degree classification and subject offered.

Last year eight trainees completed the School Direct programme with the Emmanuel Schools Foundation, with four going on to secure full time teaching posts at Bede Academy.

One of them, history teacher Jessica Davidson, said: “I have had the opportunity to be part of a dynamic department who have been supportive and encouraging in the development of my teaching practice. I would recommend School Direct to anyone who values practical experience and a chance to become part of school life.”

Mathematics teacher Adam Bridgwater added: “Being a member of staff presents you with the opportunity to get involved in all aspects of college life, which provides a terrific insight into the role of the school in the development of its students.”

This year, the ESF schools are recruiting in English, modern foreign languages, mathematics, chemistry, physics and biology, design and technology (engineering), computer science, music and PE.

In addition, two primary school teaching places are available at Bede Academy, which is a 3-18 academy.

Potential graduate applicants can specify Emmanuel College as their preferred lead school in their application, which should be submitted now through UCAS teacher training at www.UCAS.com