FAQs for Early Career Teachers

 

 

Navigating your journey as an Early Career Teacher (ECT) can bring forth questions and uncertainties. We’ve compiled a list of frequently asked questions to provide clarity and support as you embark on this rewarding path in education.

 

Whether you’re curious about the benefits related to working on supply, required skills for the role or training opportunities for ECTs, we aim to address your enquiries and equip you with the information needed to thrive in your role. Explore our FAQs below to gain valuable insights and guidance as you navigate the exciting world of early career teaching.

 

If you still have questions about working on supply or are looking for a job in education, get in touch with our team today!

 

  • What is an ECT?

    An Early Career Teacher (ECT), previously referred to as a Newly Qualified Teacher (NQT), is an educator who has recently completed their initial teacher training and is in the early stages of their teaching career. They typically have limited classroom experience and may be in their first few years of teaching. As an ECT, you will often require more mentorship and support, so we are here to guide you along your journey!

     

    Click here to browse our latest jobs or get in touch with our team.

  • Why would an ECT choose to work on supply instead of a permanent position at a school?

    Supply work is perfect at the beginning of a new teacher’s career if you are unsure on what path you want to take. You can trial different settings, year groups and schools to better understand what would suit you. It also offers you flexibility and enables you to work around your other commitments.  

  • Would I be able to get a permanent position at a school?

    Supply is a great way of building a relationship with a school and it is common for ECTs to be offered a permanent role following a supply stint. We work with schools to facilitate permanent placements and also work with national Multi-Academy Trusts, which widens the scope and options of permanent work for our teachers. 

  • What qualities or personality traits are essential for an ECT working with children?

     Working as an Early Career Teacher (ECT) with children requires a unique set of qualities and personality traits to effectively engage and support young learners.

     

    Some important traits are patience, empathy, adaptability, enthusiasm, clear communication, organisational skills, creativity, teamwork and respect.

     

    These qualities and traits help ECTs not only navigate the challenges of teaching but also contribute to a positive and enriching educational experience for all children.

  • What qualifications are required to become an ECT with CER?

    To become an Early Career Teacher (ECT) with CER, we typically require the following qualifications and criteria: 

     

    Essential: 

     

    Desirable: 

  • What are the benefits of becoming an ECT with CER?

    There are several benefits of registering as an Early Career Teacher with CER. Here are just a few:

     

    • Ongoing CPD support and training 
    • Vacancies leading to permanent roles 
    • Interview preparation and CV writing support 
    • Induction and ongoing well-being support 
    • Jobs in several sectors – Primary, Secondary and SEN 
    • Access to Affinity Extra, our exclusive discounts and cashback offers 
    • Competitive pay rates 
    • Earn £250* when you refer a friend 
    • Sign On bonus – £300*
  • What pay rate will I receive as an ECT?

    The average pay rates for Early Career Teachers vary based on factors such as location, experience and specific requirements of the job. On average, the pay rates for our ECT roles range between £110 – £190 per day.

  • Are there opportunities for ECTs to transition from supply teaching to permanent positions?

    Yes! Many ECTs use supply teaching as a stepping stone in their teaching careers. After you have gained classroom experience and show that you are capable in your role, schools may offer you permanent teaching positions. 

  • What support and guidance do you provide to ECTs to help them succeed in their role?

    We are dedicated to providing comprehensive support and guidance to Early Career Teachers (ECTs) to help them excel in their roles. Each ECT registered with us is paired with a dedicated consultant who serves as their primary point of contact. ECTs can reach out to their consultant with any questions, concerns, or requests for assistance. Our consultants offer personalised guidance and support throughout your teaching journey. 

  • What training and development opportunities are in place for ECTs?

    We offer all candidates access to Affinity Academy, our dedicated hub for learning and development. It provides ECTs with a wealth of resources, training materials, and information to enhance their teaching skills and knowledge. ECTs registered with us have the opportunity to participate in online training courses designed to support their professional development. These courses cover a wide range of topics relevant to teaching and education, ensuring that ECTs can continue to grow in their roles. Why not take a look at our upcoming training sessions? 

     

    As a registered candidate of CER, you also have access to The Skills Network, where you can explore over 30 level 3 online learning courses that will help you upskill, reskill, and personally develop.

  • Does working on supply count towards my induction period?

    Yes, it definitely can – many of the roles we have on offer are for a minimum of one term and with schools that support ECT induction.

  • Will I have regular/full time work?

    You have the flexibility to select your weekly work days based on your availability. We offer a guaranteed pay scheme ensuring we secure work for you every day. We are so confident that this is the case that should we fail to provide you with work, we will pay you anyway!

  • Will I still have a mentor?

    If you are in the same school for a minimum of a term, the school will assign you a mentor if you are completing the ECT induction period with that school.