Induction for newly qualified teachers
Induction for 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 newly qualified teachers (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 while working in city technology colleges, independent schools and, since September 2000, in sixth form colleges. It will also be possible to undertake induction while working in city academies.
During the induction period new teachers have to demonstrate they have continued to meet the standards of Qualified Teacher Status (QTS), and meet all the induction standards.
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 to ensure that the NQT does not teach more than 90 per cent of a normal timetable during the period, to allow their induction to take place.
The head is responsible with appropriate bodies (for maintained schools and non-maintained special schools this is the LA, and for independent schools, it is either any LA in England or a special body, the Independent Schools Council Teacher Induction Panel) and will make a final recommendation as to whether the new teacher has passed or failed. 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, The Induction Support Programme for Newly Qualified Teachers (Reference: DFES/0458/2003), is now available online. Click here to consult the guidance.
Last updated: 15 July 2007
