Teach First Cymru is having a “positive impact on pupil attainment” and many teachers on the scheme are excellent role models, “displaying positive attitudes and instilling confidence among learners”.
The report, written by Arad Research, looked to assess the impact of the initiative, which was launched across South Wales in 2013 and expanded across the country last year.
Researchers found the scheme, which is funded by the Welsh government, is delivering “a range of positive impacts for participants, schools and learners” and has introduced “talented, high-quality and motivated practitioners to the Welsh education system”.
The scheme is based on an initiative that was started in England. It aims to attract top graduates into schools in areas of high deprivation.
Since its launch, Teach First Cymru has placed 129 graduates into schools where they must remain working for a minimum of two years.
Jennifer Owen-Adams, Teach First’s Cymru director, said: “There is truly significant work happening across the education community in Wales to drive up standards and ensure that poverty has no bearing on a child’s success.”
Commenting on the report, Dr Philip Dixon, director of the Association of Teachers and Lecturers Cymru, said: “Teach First has provided an invaluable boost to raising standards by getting some of our best graduates to work in some of our toughest schools. But that’s just the start of the story. The support these candidates receive helps them grow into enthusiastic and effective teachers.
“There is a great deal that the rest of the system can learn from Teach First – especially the insistence on reflective practice.”
He added: “The most heart-warming part of this report is the stories of the difference that Teach First has actually made on the ground to learners in difficult circumstances. We all look back on teachers who helped us. Teach First should be proud of the number of youngsters whose school days are now happier and more productive because of their engagement.”