Q: Will leaving my current school after my induction year work against me? I would really like to do some sixth-form teaching next year, but my school does not have a sixth-form. Will I need a good excuse to beat off competition from all those cheaper, newly qualified people?
A: These days, NQTs are not necessarily cheaper to employ, once their extra non-contact time is factored into the equation, so don’t let that put you off. After the effort of supporting you through induction, most schools would probably like a second year in which you could contribute something more. But it’s your career. If you want to teach sixth-form pupils, it seems reasonable to look for another job. Don’t forget that there will be all the hassle of learning how a new school operates. Are you sure it is worth it so soon?
