Across the country, secondary teachers are reminding their senior classes of the terrifyingly small number of teaching days left until final exams begin. While this induces no end of anxiety in teenagers, it also breeds trepidation in another in experienced group: the student (and soon to be newly qualified) teacher.
I’m in the second term of my probationary year at Bishopbriggs Academy in East Dunbartonshire. I’m fortunate that this is an excellent school, full to the brim of supportive educators. Nevertheless, I’ve enjoyed successes and learned from the inevitable mistakes in equal measure. Here, then, are four candid tips for the next wave of newly-qualified teachers.
1. Get involved with the wider school - but prioritise quality, not quantity
As new teachers we are, by nature, not only highly passionate but keen to show it. To the more cynical, the “overly keen NQT” is a bit of a comical cliché. However, you’d be hard-pressed to find a school which doesn’t welcome this level of commitment. Indeed, it’s no secret that throwing yourself into wider-school initiatives can benefit pupils, parents and teachers alike.
It’s important, though, to make sure that your contributions have depth and value. In other words, don’t stretch yourself paper-thin in order to be seen at seven different committee meetings. Rather, get involved with initiatives where you can really add something. After all, you’ll discuss this in detail at job interviews, so you’ll want to be able to provide genuine examples of times where you have made positive contributions. Trust me, an interview panel isn’t going to be interested in the time you sat in on a committee meeting and watched the clock.
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2. Don’t be afraid to contribute to departmental meetings
Specifically, ask questions. Too often in my first few weeks, I was as vocal as the hard plastic chairs we sat on. Naturally, we don’t want to expose our gaps in knowledge - which, when you think about it, is painfully ironic given our profession. However, no one will think you’re incompetent. Show your eagerness to learn by speaking out and, gradually, you’ll feel more secure around experienced teachers.
3. Use the school’s support programmes - it’s not a sign of weakness.
Whether you need help with behaviour, attainment or a little bit of everything, your school is bound to have procedures and programmes in place to help. Too often, we worry about perception when calling out for support. Variations of “What if they think I can’t teach?” are the most common irrational thoughts. However, by seeking extra help you’re showing your strength. In my NQT year, I’ve been encouraged by staff on all levels to view it as demonstrative of resourcefulness and passion for the job. Ultimately, you owe your pupils the best start in life, and asking for that extra bit of help can make all the difference.
4. Stay on top of your CPD
Most probationers in Scotland get off to a great start with their GTCS (General Teaching Council for Scotland) profiles. However, with new classes to get familiar with, coupled with a natural desire to throw oneself into the wider school, it can be quite easy to let this crucial aspect of your first full-time teaching year slip. My advice: allocate 15 minutes every day to update any mentor meetings or CPD courses. Honestly, you’ll thank yourself when you’re up to date instead of staying in until 9pm, clutching a coffee and frantically inputting data.
Finally, sleep properly, eat well, go easy on the coffee and make sure your love of teaching is obvious to your pupils. The very best of luck to you all.
Glen Fraser is a newly-qualified English teacher at Bishopbriggs Academy in East Dunbartonshire, near Glasgow. He tweets @glenjamesfraser
