Teacher Champions FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions regarding the Teacher Champions Programme
The closing date for applications to the Teacher Champions programme for SY25/26 is 25/04/25.
Applications can be made by completing and submitting our Application form.
Do I have to be a secondary teacher to apply for Teacher Champions?
Yes, the Teacher Champions programme is specifically aimed at secondary teachers in SY25/26. If you are a primary teacher, you can check out all of our amazing content specifically designed for primary aged children, learn more about our outreach and in-situ workshops, and sign up for the FREE UK-wide Shakespeare Week festivities! If you are a KS5-only teacher, you can learn more about our offerings for advanced studies.
Do I have to be an English teacher to apply for Teacher Champions?
While the majority of this course will be aimed at secondary English teachers, secondary Drama teachers would also benefit from the programme. Please clearly state within your application which subject you teach at secondary level.
Do I need to be a qualified teacher to win a place on the Teacher Champions programme?
We welcome applications from teachers at all stages of their careers including trainee teachers and Early Career Teachers. No prior experience in teaching Shakespeare is required; however, experienced teachers are also encouraged to apply to both share their wealth of experience and develop new knowledge and techniques around the teaching of Shakespeare to secondary pupils.
What will I receive as if I am successfully chosen to become a Teacher Champion?
Your time on the Teacher Champions programme will broaden and deepen your subject knowledge and pedagogy around teaching Shakespeare. You will work with our experts, and a wide range of teachers from across the UK, to develop and share innovative best practice techniques for teaching Shakespeare to secondary students and to reflect on your impact in the classroom. In completing the Teacher Champions programme, you will become an official ambassador of the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust and can proudly share this lifelong status as a member of the Teacher Champions Network as you move through your teaching career.
Our benefits and expectations page lists everything you will receive if you are chosen to become a Teacher Champion for SY25/26.
How will my students benefit?
By giving you time and space to delve more deeply into the content, context, and language of your set Shakespeare texts, your students will benefit from your increased confidence and understanding, allowing you to increase engagement, better scaffold for understanding, or stretch and challenge the most able.
I live far away from Stratford-upon-Avon; can I still apply?
Of course! With much of this programme hosted online, you can join from wherever you are across the UK negating the need for travel and cover for your lessons. You will be invited to meet your fellow Teacher Champions face-to-face during our launch event in Stratford-upon-Avon on 14/07/25 and to experience the magic of our historic properties for yourself. If you feel you would be unable to attend our launch event due to distance or cost, please get in touch with us by emailing Claire Fenlon ([email protected]) and we can make arrangements for you to attend virtually on the day.
How much does becoming a Teacher Champion cost?
The Teacher Champions programme is completely FREE for our successful applicants. All CPD sessions, mentoring 1:1 sessions with Dr. Nick Walton, and access to the digital workspace are FREE. Incidental costs such as travel to and from Stratford-upon-Avon for our launch day and the cost of your lunch will be covered by you or your school.
When is the closing date for applications?
The closing date for applications is 25/04/2025 and applicants will hear whether they have been successful during the week beginning 02/06/2025.
I have a question that’s not covered here…
If you have further questions, you can come along to our Zoom Q&A at 4pm on 31/03/25 to put your queries to SBT staff (email Claire Fenlon for joining information) or email your queries directly to Claire Fenlon at [email protected]