Becoming an ECT is a big accomplishment and it takes a lot of hard work and dedication. But once you gain your qualified teacher status (QTS), the real challenge begins. You have to prove that you are worth your certification and that you are capable of providing quality teaching and support to your students. In this blog post, we will discuss some tips that will help you pass your ECT training years with flying colours!
Always pay attention to the feedback
Any Early Career Teacher (ECT) knows that the first two years of teaching are crucial for development and growth. To be successful, it is important to always pay attention to the feedback given by mentors and induction tutors.
By doing so, ECTs can fine-tune their teaching methods and expand their knowledge base. Additionally, paying attention to feedback will help ECTs identify areas where they need improvement. By taking these steps, ECTs can set themselves up for success during their all-important first two years of teaching.
Ask Questions
When I started my career as an Early Career Teacher, I was told that the best way to learn was to always ask questions. And so, during my first few years on the job, I made it a point to always ask questions when I wasn’t sure of something. To be honest, there were times when I felt like I was asking too many questions.
But, looking back, I’m glad that I did because it helped me to learn a lot about being a teacher. Asking questions also showed my mentors and colleagues that I was willing to learn, which made them more likely to help me when I needed it. So, if you’re an ECT who is feeling overwhelmed by all the newness, just remember to always ask questions. It’s the best way to learn and grow as a teacher.
Engage with training
You’ve just finished 3 years of training at university, and now you’re being expected to attend weekly training sessions on a variety of subjects. It’s a drag – but if you fully engage with this training, you’ll be able to pass your ECT year with flying colours. Here are a few tips to help you get the most out of your training courses and workshops:
1. Pay attention and take notes during each session. This will help you retain the information and be able to reference it later on.
2. Ask questions! If you’re unsure about something, make sure to raise your hand and ask for clarification. This shows that you’re engaged with the material and interested in learning more.
3. Put what you learn into practice. After each session, make sure to try out the concepts you learned in your own classroom. This will help solidify the information and make it more useful to you in the long run.
Use the training time to meet your other ECTs as well. Unload any stresses that you are having and you will find that other people are having the exact same ones! You are never alone as a teacher.
Raise any concerns as soon as possible
If you are struggling, it is important to raise concerns as soon as possible. Your mentor or induction tutor can provide valuable support and guidance. In addition, there are a few things you can do to increase your chances of success. First, make use of resources such as books, websites, and online forums.
There is a wealth of information available to help you navigate the challenges of teaching. Second, build a support network of fellow teachers. These colleagues can offer advice, moral support, and practical tips for dealing with difficult situations. Finally, remember that each day is a new opportunity to learn and grow as a teacher. With perseverance and dedication, you will eventually find your stride and become an effective educator.
You cannot fail
It is often said that the two years of teacher training are some of the most challenging of a person’s life. For many early career teachers (ECTs), this is certainly true. The pressure to meet the high standards set by the teaching profession can be overwhelming, and the thought of failing one’s training year is daunting.
However, it is important to remember that passing one’s training year is not an all-or-nothing proposition. You cannot fail the training process. During your two training years, you will be judged against the Teaching Standards and if you do not match up to all of the standards then your school may decide you are not ready to pass your QTS yet.
So, if you’re an ECT who is feeling discouraged, remember that the road to success is often paved with setbacks. With hard work and determination, you can make it through your training years and become the great teacher you know you can be.
So, there you have it – a few tips to help you pass your ECT training year. Remember to engage with your training, raise any concerns as soon as possible, and use the time to meet other ECTs. With these tools at your disposal, you will be well on your way to success. Thanks for reading!
FAQ
What are the Teaching Standards?
The Teaching Standards are a set of standards that all teachers in England must meet to be considered fully qualified. The standards cover a range of areas, including teaching methods, classroom management, and professional conduct.
How often can an Early Career Teacher be observed a week?
Early Career Teachers can be observed a maximum of four times per week during their first year of teaching. This includes both formal and informal observations.
How long is the ECT training scheme?
The ECT training scheme is two years long. After successful completion of the scheme, teachers are awarded Qualified Teacher Status (QTS).
What happens if an Early Career Teacher does not meet all of the Teaching Standards?
If an Early Career Teacher does not meet all of the Teaching Standards, their school may decide that they are not ready to pass their QTS yet. However, this does not mean that the teacher has failed their training year. It simply means that they will need to continue working towards meeting all of the standards before they can be awarded QTS.
1 thought on “How to Pass Your ECT Training Years”
Comments are closed.