Navigating the shift into full-time teaching can be challenging for Early Career Teachers. The Early Career Framework has been developed to support newly qualified teachers during their initial years in the classroom. 

Here are some tips for new Early Career Teachers (ECTs) joining the programme this year, based on valuable insights shared by past graduates:

Build strong relationships 

For both Early Career Teachers and Mentors, building strong relationships in a school setting is key. Effective teaching often hinges on having good-quality relationships with students, parents and colleagues. Ensure that you are building these relationships during your initial years in the classroom as it will only aid in establishing a solid support network for your teaching career. 

Get the most out of your Mentors 

Mentors are there to provide invaluable guidance to Early Career Teachers. Use your Mentors for advice and insights on module-related content such as teaching methods, management techniques, and approaches to student engagement. This will give you contextualised and real-life examples of what is being learnt in the Early Career Framework. Make sure that Mentor sessions are being used wisely to engage in reflective and valuable discussions so that your teaching skills can be developed.

Ask for support if you need it

The first few years in the classroom can be daunting for newly qualified teachers. The Early Career Framework has been designed and developed to avoid teacher burnout and provide support to teachers during their first couple of years in the role. If you feel overwhelmed at any point, it is important to have a strong support network that you can turn to. Take time for yourself and create a healthy work-life balance that doesn't leave you exhausted by the end of the school week. It is key to remember that the attitude that you bring to the classroom impacts not only your work but your students' work too. 

Network with peers

One key positive of the Early Career Framework is the ability for Early Career Teachers up and down the country to network with others and share experiences. Join in discussions to share best practices and tips from other Early Career Teachers who may have different and new ideas. Consider creating a group chat or becoming part of an online forum to keep in touch with other ECTs and share experiences. 

Manage your time wisely 

Early Career Teachers have their timetable reduced by 10% in Year 1 and 5% in Year 2 of the programme. This extra time is important and should be used and dedicated to further learning. Avoid falling into habits such as using this time to catch up on marking or lesson planning. Instead, take this time to reflect on your teaching and how you can incorporate learnings from the Early Career Framework into your classroom.

Celebrate your achievements 

Teaching is a profession where every small victory matters. Celebrating your achievements, no matter how minor they might appear, plays a vital role in sustaining your enthusiasm and motivation throughout your early teaching career.

Embarking on your journey as an Early Career Teacher is a challenging yet incredibly rewarding experience. By following these tips and drawing from the insights of those who have completed the Early Career Framework before you, you can navigate the early stages of your teaching career with confidence and continue to make a positive impact on your students' lives.

Looking for more information?

If you would like any more information on our ECF programme, get in contact with us:

 Email: enquiries@bestpracticenet.co.uk

 Tel: +44 (0) 117 920 9200 (8.30am-5.30pm, Mon-Fri)

Visit our ECF page