Induction

For newly qualified teachers (NQTs), induction has a very precise meaning. To be able to continue to teach without restrictions in maintained schools, non-maintained special schools in England, maintained nursery schools, maintained children’s centres and pupil referral units, you must successfully complete the required induction period, equivalent to three terms of teaching, by meeting the Teachers’ Standards (England) or Professional Standards for Teaching and Leadership (Wales).

The length of the induction period is set to increase from one to two years in the future. The Department for Education is rolling out a new Early Career Framework (ECF) which will be in place by September 2021, and includes a two year induction period for teachers starting induction from that date. There might also be transitional arrangements that would affect anyone who starts induction before then, but does not complete it and later returns. If you are in a school taking part in the early roll-out of the ECF from September 2020, discuss arrangements with your school and contact the NEU if you have any queries or concerns.

Induction guide and checklists