Guernsey is actively working to cultivate its own pool of educators, offering a specialized training course designed to equip new teachers with the skills and understanding needed to thrive in the island’s unique educational landscape. Applications are currently open for the Initial Teacher Training (ITT) program, run by The Guernsey Institute in partnership with Middlesex University, allowing participants to earn a Post Graduate Certificate (PG Cert).
The program’s emphasis on the “Guernsey way” of teaching is a key differentiator, according to recent graduates. Charlotte Moore, a teacher at La Houguette, highlighted the value of training on the island, stating that it allowed her to learn a curriculum specifically tailored to Guernsey’s needs, rather than the national curriculum typically taught in the UK. This localized approach, she believes, is crucial for retaining teachers within the community.
“I’m a local girl and being here with my family was really essential to me,” Moore said. “Actually training on island with the Guernsey-specific curriculum was really worthwhile… It was important learning the Guernsey way.” She added that the availability of such programs helps prevent teachers from seeking opportunities off-island after completing their training.
Applications are open for the latest round of Guernsey’s Initial Teacher Training course. https://t.co/wJq9wJq99w
— BBC Guernsey (@BBCGuernsey) February 28, 2026
Addressing Teacher Wellbeing in Guernsey
The focus on local teacher training comes at a time when teacher wellbeing is a growing concern globally, and Guernsey is not immune. A recent survey conducted in Jersey revealed that 62% of teachers had considered leaving their roles in the past year, prompting a discussion about work-related stress within the profession. As reported by the BBC, Guernsey’s Education President Paul Montague acknowledged that while the island may be in a better position than some parts of the UK, teacher stress remains “a real problem.”
Montague emphasized the importance of regular check-ins and supportive line management to prevent issues from escalating. He also highlighted the need to foster a strong sense of community among teachers, creating a positive ethos within schools. “We need all our employees to have really meaningful line management meetings on a very regular basis so We find those constant check-ins, because we can’t get to the point where problems build up and then people go off ill,” he said.
The ‘Guernsey Way’ and its Importance
The “Guernsey way” of teaching, as emphasized by Moore and the ITT program, appears to be a holistic approach that considers the unique cultural and educational context of the island. This includes adapting the curriculum to reflect local needs and values, and providing teachers with the support they need to navigate the specific challenges of teaching in Guernsey. Jemma Smith, another ITT graduate who teaches Year 3 at La Mare de Carteret, described the course as an “absolute privilege,” noting its ability to help her balance her studies with her personal life.
The Guernsey Institute has set a deadline of April 17th for applications to the next ITT course. The program’s continued availability is seen as a vital step in ensuring a sustainable supply of qualified teachers for Guernsey’s schools. The initiative aims to not only prepare new educators but also to encourage them to remain on the island, contributing to the long-term stability of the education system.
Supporting Local Educators
The emphasis on local training and support reflects a broader effort to address the challenges facing teachers in Guernsey. Montague acknowledged the high-pressure nature of the job and the importance of recognizing and supporting educators’ wellbeing. He praised teachers for their dedication, stating, “Teachers were working incredibly hard and I think we’re so fortunate to have some of the teachers that we do.”
The ITT program, isn’t simply about skills development; it’s about building a resilient and committed teaching workforce that is deeply rooted in the Guernsey community. By providing a pathway for local residents to pursue a career in education, the program aims to address both the immediate need for qualified teachers and the long-term goal of retaining talent within the island.
The program’s success will likely be measured not only by the number of qualified teachers it produces but also by its impact on teacher retention rates and overall wellbeing within the Guernsey education system. As the island continues to navigate the challenges of attracting and retaining educators, initiatives like the ITT program will be crucial in ensuring a high-quality education for future generations.
The next step for prospective teachers is to submit their applications by the April 17th deadline. Further information about the ITT course and the application process can be found on The Guernsey Institute’s website.
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