Being an early career teacher (ECT) can be a scary time if you are yet to find your first teaching job. But that’s where Athona Education steps in. Our 16 years of experience means we’re experts in supporting early career teachers (previously known as newly qualified teachers/NQTs) with finding the right role for them.
Our experienced and dedicated consultants have great relationships with lots of schools (both primary and secondary) that support ECT’s across Essex, Suffolk and East London, to get the process started, click here to send us your CV.
Our team will help throughout the entire process, from securing an interview to starting your induction.
Nervous about the prospect of securing an early career teacher job? Take a look at our top tips below to help you when attending your next interview:
Creating a good impression
Remember, you never get second chance to make a good first impression. The interviewer will have formed an initial opinion of you before you even say hello. Dress smartly, smile, be polite and friendly – and don’t be afraid of feeling nervous. The interviewer will expect this!
Don’t forget, all staff members within a school will be asked their opinion on candidates, so treating everyone with the same courtesy is imperative – rudeness to any member of staff could cost you a job offer.
Preparation
Research the school properly beforehand and tailor your responses to show you want to work at that school, not just any school. The school’s website or Ofsted report is a great place to start. Having that knowledge means you will feel prepared to ask relevant questions specific to the school (behaviour management, marking, homework, etc.) – but it also shows you care and have done plenty of preparation.
Relax & keep calm
Whilst we all know it’s not easy during an interview to keep relaxed and not rush your answers/listen to the question properly, but taking a second to answer and keep calm will prevent mistakes from happening (which happen more with nerves). Take a deep breath, slow down and relax.
Be yourself
It’s the real you they want to see, pretending to be something else or putting on an act will actually have a negative effect, the interviewer will pick up on it. Believe in yourself and your teaching capabilities!
Lesson plans
You may be asked to teach a lesson as part of the interview. This is a normal part of the process and is expected with school interviews, so is nothing to worry about. You will be told ahead of time which year group you will be teaching, so you can come prepared. Trust in your own skills, be confident and stick to your usual teaching style – taking time to plan the lesson properly.
Social media usage
Be mindful of your social media usage and check over what is visible on your profiles before attending an interview. It’s not unusual for potential employers to look you up before they meet you. For more tips about keeping yourself safe online, we posted this handy blog.
Temporary roles
It may be that right now you feel a permanent role is not for you, but did you know you can work as a supply teacher or in a long-term role before going permanent? It’s the perfect way to experience a variety of school settings and different year groups to help you develop new skills. Another reason to consider a temporary role is the benefit of the flexibility temporary work offers. It allows you to choose the days you work, a better work/life balance and no planning or marking requirements – just plenty of teaching experience!
Are you an early career teacher looking to work with a teaching agency that really understands your requirements? You can register with us in under 5 minutes by clicking here.
Or you can give our friendly team a quick call today on 01277 245840 or get in touch by email here.
Whatever path you decide to take, your dedicated consultant can help you and will be happy to discuss all our available options with you.
