The induction period is designed to ensure all newly qualified teachers (NQTs) are supported in their first year of teaching after gaining qualified teacher status (QTS). It is the bridge between initial teacher training (ITT) and a career in teaching. It combines a personalised programme of development, support and professional dialogue, with monitoring and assessment of performance against the core standards. These arrangements apply to anyone awarded QTS, by whatever route, from May 1999.
There are two main aspects to the induction period; an individual programme of professional development and monitoring, and assessment against national core standards.
The induction programme
The induction programme should help NQTs build on, and extend, the knowledge and skills they developed during ITT, and provide the foundation for continuing professional and career development.
The programme should help the NQT meet the core standards by the end of the period and equip them with the tools to be an effective and successful teacher. The induction programme should be tailored to meet individual needs and circumstances. It will provide a reduced timetable (in addition to planning, preparation and assessment time) and significant opportunities for teachers to:
- show their potential
- make rapid advancement towards excellence in teaching
- begin to make a real impact on school and pupil development
The NQT should expect to play an active part in planning and reviewing their induction programme.
The induction period lasts for the equivalent of three school terms. Although an NQT’s progress will not affect their QTS, they must complete induction successfully to continue teaching in a maintained school or non-maintained special school in England.
