Choosing the school that’s right for you

As we begin a new academic year, I realise how much I have progressed during my first year as an NQT. I have grown in confidence and developed new skills. I have led CPD sessions, taken part in extra-curricular activities and gained leadership experience. There have been moments of stress and there have been days when teaching has been difficult. But on the whole, this year has been overwhelmingly positive. Whilst I have had to work hard for this success, it would not have been possible without the support in place at my school. My school, a secondary school in a diverse catchment area in Sheffield, ensures that all NQTs feel secure and valued as they learn to teach. For example, this year I have benefited from having the opportunity to observe others and witness best practice in the classroom, whilst also receiving observations from a range of staff to get the best-quality feedback possible for my own evolving practice. The school has hosted NQT TeachMeets so that new teachers from