Early Career Development (ECT)
Early Career Teachers (ECT)
We support Early Career Teachers through a structured programme of training, mentoring and professional support.
Supporting Early Career Teachers | Programme and Partnerships | Trust-wide Collaboration | Further Information
At Exceed Academies Trust, early career development is a key part of our commitment to recruiting, developing and retaining high-quality teachers.
We work in partnership with the Exceed Teaching School Hub and accredited providers to facilitate the Early Career Teacher entitlement, ensuring that all ECTs receive their full programme of support and development.
Supporting Early Career Teachers
All Early Career Teachers employed within the Trust undertake a two-year induction programme.
Each ECT is supported by:
- A Mentor – providing regular coaching, feedback and day-to-day support
- An Induction Tutor – a senior leader responsible for overseeing progress and ensuring the ECT receives their full entitlement
This structure ensures that ECTs are supported both professionally and personally as they develop their practice.
Programme and Partnerships
The Early Career Teacher programme is based on the Early Career Framework and is delivered in partnership with Ambition Institute through the Exceed Teaching School Hub.
As a Teaching School Hub designated by the Department for Education, the Hub facilitates access to this national programme, working with lead providers to ensure high-quality, evidence-informed training.
Within the Trust, this is complemented by school-based induction and support tailored to the needs of each ECT and their context.
Trust-wide Collaboration
A key feature of our approach is the opportunity for Early Career Teachers to work collaboratively across the Trust.
Through shared sessions, networks and professional dialogue, ECTs are able to:
- Build relationships with colleagues across different schools
- Share experiences and develop practice
- Access support from experienced practitioners
This collaborative model strengthens professional development and supports ECTs to develop confidence and expertise over time.
Self-study, coaching and feedback
Self-study, coaching and feedback form a core part of the weekly programme for Early Career Teachers.
ECTs receive a reduced timetable (10% in Year 1 and 5% in Year 2) to support their development. Mentors are also supported through training to undertake their role effectively.
This work is supported by structured materials and tools provided through the programme, including online platforms to support reflection and development.
School-based induction
Alongside the national programme, schools provide tailored induction support based on the needs of each Early Career Teacher.
This may include observation of experienced teachers, support with school systems and processes, and focused instructional coaching.
Facilitated sessions
ECTs attend a series of training sessions, including conferences and collaborative sessions with colleagues from across the Trust and partner schools.
These sessions support the development of professional knowledge and provide opportunities for collaboration and shared learning.
Additional sessions within the Trust allow content to be contextualised and informed by effective practice across our schools.
Appropriate Body
Progress is reviewed through regular assessments aligned to the Teachers’ Standards, which are overseen by the Appropriate Body.
Exceed Teaching School Hub provides Appropriate Body services for many schools in the region, supporting schools to ensure that statutory induction requirements are met.
Further Information
If you would like further information about Early Career Teacher support within Exceed Academies Trust, please contact the Trust or refer to the relevant guidance below.
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