Your ECT induction year: a practical survival guide

Since September 2021, newly qualified teachers complete a two-year Early Career Teacher (ECT) induction rather than the one-year NQT period. The framework is more structured and (when done well) more supportive — but you need to know what counts.

What's required

Two years of teaching service in a school where the Early Career Framework is being delivered. A reduced timetable (10% off in year 1, 5% off in year 2). A named mentor. Regular formal observations. Two formal assessments per year, the final one against the Teachers' Standards.

What counts towards induction

Full-time or part-time substantive posts. Long-term supply placements (typically 4+ weeks in one school) can count — but the school must be willing to formally enrol you, deliver the framework, and submit assessments. Daily supply does not count.

Choosing your first school

Prioritise mentoring quality over salary, school reputation, or commute. A good mentor doubles the value of your induction; a poor one wastes a year. Ask in interview: who is the mentor, how long have they been one, what do they do in mentoring meetings?

If induction goes wrong

If you fail the final assessment, you cannot teach in maintained schools. This is rare but does happen. Speak to your union early if assessments are going badly — they can often intervene before a final decision is made.