In a climate in which schools are increasingly under pressure to deliver so much with so little in terms of funding and resources, hiring an NQT can seem like the most cost-effective and sensible decision that a school leader can make.  

However, it is important that school leaders don’t fall into the trap of seeing NQTs as simply the cheap option. If you invest the necessary time and resource in a new teacher, they will grow into skilled and knowledgeable practitioners who will benefit your entire school.

So, how do you make sure you are supporting NQTs effectively? Here are some key considerations.

1. Choose the right mentor 

Ensure that your NQT is joining a staff team with different levels of experience (where possible) and is allocated an experienced and organised mentor.

You must also ensure that NQT mentors are given sufficient time to not only meet with the NQT but to coach and support them - for example, through joint planning, team teaching and joint observations of other practitioners.

2. Plan for development

You want your NQT to make improvements in this first year, so do make sure that they are given sufficient time to observe good practice across the academy or school.

Outside the classroom, you also need to ensure that your NQT has access to a CPD programme that is tailored for their personal needs or areas for development.

3. Make them a priority

Just like the children we teach, you can’t leave your NQT waiting for weeks to have their mistakes corrected. Make it a priority that your NQT receives timely feedback on all observations, and clear advice to reflect upon.

This advice shouldn’t just be about their performance in the classroom. NQTs will also need to be offered support with organisation, stress management and meeting deadlines in addition to teaching and learning.

4. Lead from the top

Your NQT programme needs to have a clear line into your whole school improvement plan. Therefore, a senior leader should have a clear overview of the progress and wellbeing of NQTs across the organisation. This means they know what is on the programme and are regularly speaking with mentors.

5. Encourage collaboration and collegiate relationships

It is important to encourage NQTs to work with each other - for example, through supportive learning communities or peer coaching programmes.

As a school, you should seek out exciting opportunities for NQTs to attend local or regional events such as teach meets and research conferences, and encourage them to share their findings with their team.

Kat Cafferky teaches English and is the vice principal at Cathedral Academy in Wakefield