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Early career teacher

A newly qualified teacher in England in their two-year statutory induction period, supported by a mentor and the Early Career Framework. Formerly NQT.

Also called
ECT
Used in
England
Topic
Teacher training

Being checked against official sources. This definition is written in our own words; always check the official guidance for your country.

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NQT (Newly qualified teacher) England Wales Northern Ireland
A teacher in their first year after qualifying. In England the term has been replaced by ECT; Wales and NI still use NQT; Scotland uses probationer.
Induction England Wales Northern Ireland
The statutory period, two years in England, that a new teacher must complete satisfactorily after gaining QTS to keep teaching in maintained schools.
Early Career Framework (ECF) England
The DfE framework setting out what early career teachers in England should learn about during their two-year induction; combined with the CCF into the ITTECF.
Mentor All four UK nations (details may differ) United States
An experienced teacher who supports a trainee or new teacher with regular meetings, feedback and coaching.

More terms: Teacher training

Appropriate body · Assessment only route · Initial teacher training · ITT Core Content Framework · ITTECF · NPQ for SENCOs

More terms starting with E · Education glossary A–Z · Get a TIP for your class

Definitions are written by Classfern in our own words for teachers in the UK and the US. They are short explanations, not legal or official definitions: always check the official guidance for your country, nation or state. Classfern is not affiliated with or endorsed by any government department, inspectorate or exam board named here.