Does an NTT course include teaching practice?
Most NTT courses include practical work. APTTI's courses use applied assignments such as lesson planning and teaching activities, and nursery teacher training generally expects practical experience with young children. If you are not already working in a preschool, arrange regular volunteering so you can try activities and reflect on them.
What this means in practice
Teaching practice turns theory into skill. Even short, regular sessions with children help you learn timing, group management and how to adapt plans.
Ways to get practice
- Your own workplace, if you already work with children
- Volunteering at a playschool, anganwadi or day-care centre
- Community storytelling or craft sessions
- Activity sessions with relatives' children, for early practice
What to practise
Circle time, reading a story aloud, leading a rhyme with actions, setting up a sensory tray, managing a transition, and talking with a parent at pick-up.
Reflecting after practice
- What did I plan, and what actually happened?
- Which children were engaged, and who was not?
- What would I change next time?
- What did I learn about these children?
What to do next
- Find a setting willing to host you.
- Agree times and supervision.
- Keep a practice log.
- Use practice in assignments.
What to keep in mind
Follow the setting's safeguarding rules. Do not photograph children without permission.
Common follow-up questions
Is internship compulsory in NTT?
It depends on the provider; ask admissions about the requirements for your level.
Can my own children count as practice?
They help early on, but group settings give more realistic practice.
Sources
Course facts come from APTTI's published course pages. Examples use made-up names. How these answers are prepared.