'I did my PGCE placement and completed my NQT year at Hoo. Hoo has helped mould me into the teacher I want to be. I've been surrounded by a strong group of dedicated staff and have never once felt alone. During my NQT year I had regular contact with my supportive mentor, observations and feedback from 'outstanding' teachers, and clear targets that challenged and guided me towards success. I felt supported and invested in as a teacher. I am still learning daily and I know that Hoo is the place I can grow in my career.'
Rosie, English NQT.
At Hoo you will have a dedicated mentor who will meet with you once a fortnight and support you to receive feedback once a fortnight. All our mentors are experienced coaches and have experience in supporting teachers in all aspects of their practice. You will also have support from your Head of Department, SLT link and the LP Team who can give you feedback on your progress.
You will have an additional 10% timetable time to dedicate to your professional development; you will be able to use this to develop your knowledge of fields of pedagogy you are interested in.
Your NQT appropriate body is the MTSA and you will access their bespoke NQT CPD programme which gives you an opportunity to network with other NQTs across Medway.
All evidence is kept electronically, so there is no need for large folders; this will be used to complete the three Assessment Points which will monitor your progress.
A bespoke NQT induction in term 6 which will introduce you to all Academy policies, routines and life at Hoo.
(Please click below to open and read the document)
You will receive feedback in your first fortnight from your mentor and a member of the LP team.
You will be given an academic planner to support you in planning alongside schemes of work and IT packages to support with giving rewards as well as a laptop.
You will be given support from your mentor and Head of Department with implementing the Behaviour systems and how to complete Assessment data.
You will have the opportunity to undertake whole school and NQT CPD to support your professional studies.
You will also have an opportunity to meet with the Principal or a Deputy Head to discuss your first weeks at Hoo.
Use your planner, it will support you in remembering key dates and deadlines.
Focus on learning the names of your students, it will make life easier.
Use times such as when you are on duty to ‘check in’ with your students and build relationships.
Be consistent in your application of the C system or this could lead to problems.
Bring a cup and find out what the department’s system is for tea/coffee etc.
Either decide to work weeknights and take weekends off OR take weeknights off and work a weekend day - NEVER both!
Write everything down in your planner - lessons, meetings, essay due dates, CPD sessions, PFPs, homework due/set, everything - work can seem a lot and staying organised will help.
Keep a jar/pot and write down/keep the good things that happen - teaching can seem thankless a lot of the time and having something you can look at and remind you of the good things can really help sometimes.
Observe as many teachers as you can (not just in your subject), you'll gain so many ideas, tips and tricks.
Build a strong relationship with your mentor. They're there to help and support you. Don't be afraid to ask for help when you need it!
Your workload will increase but don't panic. Figure out when marking and planning works best for you and stick to it. Make sure you factor in time for yourself.
Listen to feedback and constructive criticism. It's all positive and there to help you grow as a teacher.
You will always have a 'To Do List'. Don't panic if it doesn't get completed, learn to prioritise your time.