“I was promoted to Deputy Head of Maths at my school. […] If you think you’re ready, don’t let a lack of experience hold you back!”

The Future Teaching Scholars programme offers a really well thought-out and structured introduction to teaching. The combination of research modules, school visits and training was manageable alongside undergraduate studies, but also helped you gain valuable experience and confidence in schools. The FTS team was invaluable in the ITT process, helping you find your initial placement and ensuring you settled in well.

I feel like I have progressed very well from my ITT year to ECT2. The support you get at the beginning of your career helps you to ease into teaching, and you get a lot of support from your school and Regional Training Centre (RTC). They ensure you have the means to tackle any issues you face along the way, as well as provide regular support and feedback to help you continue to improve.

Promotion as an ECT

In February 2023, I was promoted to Deputy Head of Maths at my school. This means that alongside my ECT responsibilities I am responsible for curriculum development, assessment planning and setting within KS3, as well as supporting with timetabling and budgetary issues. My school has been very supportive in ensuring I can manage all of my roles without feeling overwhelmed.

To anyone considering applying for a new position within their school: if you think you’re ready, don’t let a lack of experience hold you back! Different people will progress at different rates, and you don’t want to miss out on the chance to make a more positive impact at your school because of self-doubt.