As of 1 September 2021 the term NQT (Newly Qualified Teachers) will be changing to ECT (Early Career Teachers). Here are the key changes you will need to be aware of:
- Length of induction will be increased from one to two school years
- The term early career teacher (ECT) replaces newly qualified teacher (NQT)
- There will be a 10 per cent timetable reduction in the 1st year, ECTs will also receive a five per cent reduction in the 2nd year of induction.
- Schools are expected to deliver an induction period that is underpinned by the ECF (Early Career Framework). Appropriate bodies will have a role in checking that an ECF-based induction is in place.
- The role of the mentor has been introduced. The mentor will have a key role in supporting the ECT during induction and is separate to the role of the induction tutor.
- There will be two formal assessment points, one midway through induction, and one at the end of the induction. These will be supported by regular progress reviews which will take place in each term where a formal assessment is not scheduled.
- In cases where ECTs working part-time can demonstrate that they have met the Teachers’ Standards, the appropriate body is able to reduce the length of the induction period and bring forward the final assessment point. This decision is only to be made in agreement with the ECT and once the ECT has completed a period covering, but not equivalent to, two school years.
- The number of ad-hoc absences permitted has been extended, in line with the extended length of induction.
There is no legal requirement to complete this induction period if you teach in Academies, Further Education, Free Schools or British Schools Overseas. However, the induction period can still be implemented in these settings.
If you wish to find out more on this change, please visit the link below where you will be able to find the new induction document for early career teachers. This document replaces the ‘induction for newly qualified teachers’.
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/induction-for-early-career-teachers-england
For our contract admin clients – All of our contracts have been updated to include this change in legislation.
If you need any further help or advice regarding the change then feel free to give us a call on 01924 826869.
