13th June 2025

Early Career Teacher (ECT) induction explained: Your complete guide to QTS in England

To gain full QTS, you will need to complete their induction. This is a mandatory phase in England for newly qualified teachers in state schools and is designed to support your transition into full-time classroom teaching. Previously, this was called the Newly Qualified Teacher induction (NQT). Since 2021, a new induction programme called the Early Career Teacher induction (ECT) has come into force across England.

What to expect during your ECT induction

The ECT induction is a two-year programme supported by the Department for Education’s Early Career Framework (ECF). During this period, you’ll receive dedicated support from a mentor through regular one-to-one meetings, benefit from a reduced timetable to focus on professional development (10% in your first year and 5% in your second) and undergo two formal assessments at the end of each year. You’ll also take part in regular progress reviews and have access to high-quality training materials. To complete your induction, your school must be registered with an Appropriate Body, which ensures fair and consistent standards throughout the process.

Benefits of completing the ECT induction

The ECT phase is more than just a mandatory requirement, it’s a vital support system designed to help you thrive as a new teacher. It provides the opportunity to grow in confidence, refine your teaching skills and establish strong professional habits. With regular, constructive feedback in a supportive environment, you’ll be able to develop your career along a clear progression path. Plus, you’ll earn a salary from day one, starting on the main pay range for qualified teachers, with annual pay increases and the potential for future promotions.

Frequently asked questions…

Can I complete my ECT via an agency?

Yes! It does not matter whether you are employed directly by a school or not, as long as you are in a long-term post, you can complete your ECT induction via an agency. 

Can I complete my ECT doing supply work?

No, unfortunately not, as the ECT induction requires you to have a set school for a minimum of one full term. As an ECT, you need to be completing a full teaching role involving planning, preparation and marking, and you must also be allocated a set mentor at your school to guide you through your first few years as a teacher.

Can I complete my ECT across more than one school?

Yes, you can complete your ECT across different schools, however, you must spend at least one term in each school and complete all required assessments at each school to qualify.

How long do I have to complete my ECT Induction?

If you are working full time, you can complete your ECT in 2 years, however, those who are working part time must complete the equivalent of 2 years full time, so this can take a little longer. 

Can I complete my ECT induction abroad?

Yes, you can complete your ECT overseas. However, the school must be a British overseas-accredited school. The majority of overseas schools do not have this accreditation; therefore, completing your ECT year overseas can be a challenge.

How much will I earn in my ECT years?

All ECT teachers will start on the main pay scale – 1 or M1, in most cases, after your first full year as an ECT, you will move to main pay scale – 2 or M2. The amount you earn will depend on the area you live in, but will match the teacher pay scale.

What happens if I fail part of my ECT induction?

If you fail your ECT, unfortunately, you cannot repeat the process, and you will not be able to continue working in maintained schools. If you feel you have been failed unfairly or not properly supported, there is an appeals process via the Teaching Regulation Agency (TRA). If you leave in advance of your final assessment, any full terms completed and passed will count towards your ECT if you choose to return

Can I pause or defer my induction?

You do not have to complete your ECT induction immediately after graduation, and there is no time limit on how quickly you need to complete your ECT induction. However, if you have not completed your induction within 5 years of graduating, you will no longer be able to work in short-term roles and must begin your induction.

If you have started your induction and were unable to continue due to illness or other extenuating circumstances, this timeframe can be extended.

Can I work as a teacher before starting induction?

Yes, you can work as a teacher before completing your induction. Many early career teachers find it useful to do supply work in advance of joining a school on a longer-term or permanent contract. It’s important to remember that you can only do short-term supply work (under a term) for up to 5 years before completing your induction. 

Ready to start your ECT journey? Register with us today and let us help you secure the right school placement and guide you through your ECT induction. We’re here to support you every step of the way, from finding your perfect role to completing your induction with confidence.