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Learning with the NUT

You’re not alone!

Newly qualified and feel you’re on your own? You’d be surprised how many others feel the same. Janey Hulme talks to members who’ve been on an NUT course that helps NQTs find their feet.

The secret of our NQT training programme’s success is its format. NQTs from primary and secondary schools around the country get together, creating a forum where participants can exchange views, let off steam and share experiences.

On a two-day course at the Union’s Stoke Rochford Hall training centre, teachers learn how to make life as an NQT much easier.

Wales officer Gareth Lloyd tutored an NQT course in early March. He says: “The most common feedback is: ‘We realise we are not alone’. The members share good practice and make lasting friends.”

Participants certainly echo this. Cathy Fouhy, who teaches secondary art, photography and Spanish, says the sharing of experiences and encouragement each teacher gave to the other was invaluable.

“Now I’ve got some new ideas about how to approach my teaching and learning, and behaviour management.

“I’ve already used a link to a Welsh website with three of my Spanish classes and now have new contacts around the country with whom I’m going to share resources.

“I’d recommend this course to anyone doing training as it has really given me a boost. I feel I can do it after all!”

Secondary teacher Nicola Gowing enjoyed mixing with other NQTs who taught different age groups. ”My school is supportive, but it was still good to meet up with other NQTs and share experiences.

“I normally don’t get to meet primary teachers so it was good to get a feel of where 11-year-olds might be coming from at the transition stage.

“The course didn’t put us under pressure in any way. We exchanged emails and agreed to share resources and keep in touch.”

Secondary teacher Alain Ndabala says: “I’m glad I attended because I learned about different strategies that have been tried and tested in different settings. I feel confident to continue to develop my teaching practice.

“I would recommend NQTs attend the next course for maximum learning in a minimum of time.”

Primary teacher Emma Givelin thought the entire weekend was “fantastic” and all the sessions helpful and informative.

“My favourite was ‘work/life balance’ because it made me realise there’s a life outside the classroom, and the importance of looking after yourself as well as the children you teach.

“I met many people on the course whom I’ve been in contact with since returning home – I’d recommend this course to any NQT.”

Find more courses

Visit www.teachers.org.uk for all NUT CPD and training. Just search for training, cpd or ict-skills.