Induction for newly qualified teachers in England
Induction for newly qualified teachers (NQTs) follows initial teacher training
and the award of QTS. For teachers wishing to continue teaching in maintained
schools or non-maintained special schools this is a mandatory requirement.
The DfES introduced a compulsory period of induction for NQTs in September 1999. The induction period must be undertaken by NQTs who wish to work in maintained schools and non-maintained special schools.
The induction period may also be taken whilst working in city technology colleges, some independent schools, sixth form colleges, city academies and since September 2008 some further education colleges.
During the induction period new teachers have to demonstrate they have continued to meet the standards of Qualified Teacher Status (QTS), and meet the core standards during induction.
NQTs have an individualised programme of support during their induction year from a designated induction tutor. This includes observation of the new teacher's teaching, watching more experienced teachers in different settings, and a professional review of progress at least every half term.
It is the responsibility of the head/principle to ensure that the NQT does not teach more than 90 per cent of a normal timetable (in addition to the minimum ten per cent planning, preparation and assessment time they are entitled to) during the induction period to enable induction to take place.
The head/principal is responsible with appropriate bodies:
- for maintained schools and non-maintained special schools this is the LA
- for independent schools it is the Independent Schools Council Teacher Induction Panel (ISCTIP)
- for independent schools not a member of ISCTIP, academies, city technology colleges, sixth-form colleges or further education institutions it is a local authority that they reach an agreement with
and will make a final recommendation as to whether the teacher has met or not met the core standards and maintained the QTS standards. The appropriate body makes the final decision, and there is a right of appeal to the General Teaching Council for England (GTCE).
The revised guidance on induction, 'Statutory Guidance on Induction for Newly Qualified Teachers in England' is available here.
Last updated: 10 September 2008
