early career Teachers (ECT)
The first two years of teaching are not only very demanding but also of considerable significance in the professional development of the new teacher.
From 2021, under statutory guidance from the DFE, the induction arrangements for ECT (Early Career Teachers) will follow the ECTP (Early Career Training Programme). To ensure the appropriate guidance, support and training, our academy has opted for a full induction delivered by UCL – one of the designated training providers in England.
The programme will enable an ECT to form a secure foundation upon which a successful teaching career, fulfilling their professional duties, can be built.
Being an ECT at The Highcrest Academy means that your become part of the school community and you will receive the following statutory entitlements:
- The necessary employment tasks, experience and support to enable them to demonstrate at least satisfactory performance against the relevant standards throughout, and by the end of, the induction period
- An appointed mentor, who will have qualified teacher status (QTS) and an induction tutor
- A reduced timetable to allow them to undertake activities in their Early Careers Training Programme induction programme
- In the first year a 10% reduction in the second year a 5% reduction should be timetabled when compared to our existing teachers on the main pay range
- Be assigned to an external provider for the Early Career Training Programme
- Regularly teach the same class or classes
- Take part in similar planning, teaching and assessment processes to other teachers working in similar posts
For more information about the Early Career Training Programme, please see:
https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/induction-training-and-support-for-early-career-teachers-ects
For more information about UCL – our Lead Provider:
https://www.ucl.ac.uk/ioe/courses/professional-development-teachers/early-careers-training-programme-ectp
For more information about ASTRA Alliance – our Delivery Partner:
https://www.astrahub.org/1790/ectp-with-ucl
astra appropriate body handbook 2025 2026 .pdf
ECT VACANCIES FROM SEPTEMBER 2026
£2,000 Bursary is available for candidates who apply directly to the academy
As the only all ability academy in Buckinghamshire, we do whatever it takes to tackle disadvantage and provide an outstanding education to everyone. Our innovative curriculum is as diverse as our student community and is purpose-designed to release the potential of academic high-flyers and those with SEN alike. But what really sets us apart is our teachers: their passion drives our progress and transforms the way we think and work. You can join them as you take your first steps into teaching as an Early Careers Teacher.
Explore the opportunity
Highcrest offers both an excellent induction and support programme for ECTs. This provision of training has been praised as outstanding by an external assessor and highlighted in the local press.
During your reduced timetable, we provide weekly CPD meetings for all ECTs with experienced members of staff, time-tabled and protected Mentor Meetings on a weekly basis, subject knowledge time with departments, an extensive personalised CPD plan and a two-week paid induction period in June/July.
Ofsted recognised our truly innovative approach to delivering personalised CPD. Inspired by Harry Beck’s London Underground Tube map, our staff (passengers), choose their destination, the lines they wish to travel, and the stops they want to get off at. Many staff are also drivers sharing their expertise with colleagues.
“I’d definitely say our INSET and CPD programme/sessions are far better than anything I’ve seen or heard of from other schools.” ... Head of Art
Discover what we can offer you
We prioritise your wellbeing with our Work 9 – Paid 10 initiative, which simply means you work nine days and get paid for ten. The tenth day is your dedicated ‘reset day’ — time away from school to rest, recharge, and invest in your well-being. This is in addition to your statutory PPA time.
In addition, we offer significant investment in your professional development and the possibility of onsite accommodation if you need to relocate. You can also expect facilities that are second to none, including an excellent canteen, gym and coffee shop. But above all, you will relish the satisfaction of transforming futures and helping our students overcome obstacles to experience life to the full.
Whatever your specialism, please get in touch. We would love to hear from you! In the first instance, please express your interest to office@highcrestacademy.org.uk
If you’re ready to join our team, please apply for a specific vacancy here.
We look forward to hearing from you.