Early Career Teachers

Whichever school you spend your ECT year in, you will have a personalised programme of guidance and support throughout what can be a tough but exciting time.  The induction is a period of supported development, building on what has already been learned during initial teacher training.  The induction incorporates:

  • a personalised programme of professional development and support
  • an assessment against the Teachers’ Standards
  • In addition to individual programmes of professional development, you will receive:
  • In year one a 10% reduction on your teaching timetable to give time to develop teaching skills, in addition to the statutory 10% planning, preparation and assessment (PPA) time. In year two it is a 5% reduction plus the statutory PPA time.
  • Structured support from your induction tutor and an experienced mentor
  • Regular reviews of your progress and formal discussions at the end of each term with your tutor and/or headteacher.

All schools take advantage of their Appropriate Body support to ensure you receive a robust programme of support during your initial two years.

Recently qualified teachers

Support continues beyond the the ECT induction years. You'll receive ongoing support from colleagues and access to professional development opportunities.  Personalised professional development may include:

  • consolidating high impact strategies in the classroom
  • engaging in action research
  • starting to explore leadership roles.

    • Some schools also offer formal programmes for recently qualified teachers.  These programmes allow you to continue to work with peers beyond the school, as you did during your ITT and ECT years, on consolidating excellent classroom practice and developing your leadership of teaching and learning.

    Support

    Beyond the excellent support offered for professional development there is also support available through the Teacher Unions.  Many hold regular social events so that you can continue to mix with other teachers beyond your school, which is perhaps particularly important if you work in a small school.

    Financial support is also available, though with house prices reasonable compared to many parts of the country you may find that finances are less squeezed. It may be useful to visit the ‘Help to Buy’ website

    If you want support finding your first teaching role, why not apply to our ECT Talent pool? Click to find out more about the ‘ECT Talent Pool’