When starting out in teaching, it’s common to feel uncertain about how to plan and structure a scheme of work, or to struggle with gaps in subject knowledge without knowing who to turn to for support. For new or transitioning teachers - particularly in Textiles, where many schools only have one specialist - this can lead to feelings of isolation and a lack of confidence when tackling unfamiliar content or specifications. That’s where the Textiles Skills Centre mentorship programme makes a real difference. It provides a valuable space for teachers to connect, share ideas, and gain guidance from experienced mentors who understand the unique challenges they face.

As mentor Tamsin M. explains, “To be able to share my knowledge and know it is helping them become better, more confident teachers has made me feel like I’m making a real difference... there is nothing out there like it.”

The Become A Great Textiles Teacher (BAGTT) programme was a one-year professional development initiative which ran for 2 years by the Textiles Skills Centre. It was funded by a grant from the All Saints Educational Trust, with match funding from the Textiles Skills Centre.

Designed to support ECTs/NQTs, trainee teachers, non-specialist teachers moving into textiles, and technicians working in textiles classrooms, the programme focused on building skills, confidence, and subject knowledge.

Aimed at those delivering or supporting GCSE Art & Design (Textiles) or D&T Textiles, the programme provided targeted mentorship and CPD training to 100 participants, led by experienced Art & Design and D&T textiles teachers and leaders.