Induction for newly qualified teachers in England
In September 1999 the DfES introduced a compulsory period of induction for
newly qualified teachers (NQTs). The induction period follows initial teacher
training and the award of Qualified Teacher Status (QTS), and must be
undertaken by NQTs who wish to continue teaching in maintained schools and
non-maintained special schools.
The induction period may also be taken while 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 NQTs have to demonstrate that they have continued to meet the standards for the award of QTS, and that they meet the core standards.
NQTs have an individualised programme of support during their induction year from a designated induction tutor. This includes observation of the teacher's teaching, watching more experienced teachers in different settings, and a professional review of progress at least every half term.
The headteacher/principal and the appropriate body are jointly responsible for ensuring that NQT posts are suitable (for instance that NQTs will receive a reduced timetable) and that their duties, supervision, personal development and the conditions under which they work are such that a fair and effective assessment of their performance against the core standards can be made.
The appropriate body for:
- maintained schools and non-maintained special schools is the local authority (LA)
- independent schools is the Independent Schools Council Teacher Induction Panel (ISCTIP)
- independent schools not a member of ISCTIP, academies, city technology colleges, sixth-form colleges or further education institutions is any LA that they reach an agreement with.
The headteacher 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).
For detailed information see the Statutory Guidance on Induction for Newly Qualified Teachers in England. The guidance can be accessed here.
Last updated: 26 March 2009
