FebruaryFebruary guidance
How are you using the 0.3 element of your induction experience?
Having looked at the Interim Profiles that were submitted to us at Christmas, we were able to get a good feel for how probationers have utilised the 0.3 element of their timetable during the first phase of induction. This month we will look at how you can ensure the effective use of the important 0.3 element of your probation year.
At this stage it is worth reconsidering just how effectively you are utilising this important element of your induction experience. Obviously your needs will have changed from the start of the year, as identified on your latest Professional Development Action Plan. However, your expectations may also have changed, particularly with regards to just how much time you want to be teaching compared with time spent engaged in CPD experiences.
The issue of how to make good use of the 0.3 element of a probationer's timetable has been raised in research that we carried out last year. Whilst there are many examples of good practice around the country, there is evidence that this element of the Induction Scheme provision is not always being utilised in the best way. Whilst many probationers would welcome an increase in the 0.7 time that they are in sole responsibility of classes, there is also recognition that the 0.3 professional development time is a very important element of the induction experience.
Our research with teachers has also identified that collaborative working with other teachers is one of the most valuable types of CPD experience that can be engaged in. Therefore, our recommendation is that the 0.3 element be divided in three, as follows:
- to be used for team teaching
- to carry out enhanced planning
- to be used to engage in other CPD experiences
This suggested split is provided as a guide as we are well aware of the flexibility that is required to enable probationers to receive appropriate experiences in the school setting.
The Teacher Induction Scheme and CPD section explains these suggested elements in more depth and offers examples of CPD experiences that you should consider.
You will also find information on how to add CPD experiences to your Online Profile in the CPD Record section.
Job-hunting
At this time of year, most of you will probably be starting to think about finding a permanent post. While we would encourage you to take an organised approach to job hunting, you should be aware that, at this stage, you are only halfway through your probationary year.
The successful completion of your probation year should continue to be your priority, and you should be careful not neglect your teaching practice or your CPD experiences by spending too much time applying for jobs.
With this in mind, we recommend you follow these tips to make the time spent on job hunting shorter but more effective.
- Keep your CPD record up to date or your Online Profile. Having everything together in one place (i.e. in your profile) you are, in effect, keeping your CV up to date and this should help you when you do come to fill in application forms.
- Local authorities will have standard application forms on their websites, so you could download one and have a go at filling it in.
- Spend a little bit of time preparing strong, well thought-out responses to the more common questions that are found on most job applications. This will save you time in the long run as you should only need to tweak your answers for each application.
- Save yourself time by signing up for email alerts, instead of constantly checking various websites for job vacancies.
GTC Scotland is well aware of the difficulties many probationers currently face in finding employment. If you are concerned about the current employment situation for newly qualified teachers, then please see , which answers some frequently asked questions on this matter.
Further information
Remember that there is detailed guidance available on how to complete your Online Profiles. This information is also available in the Online Profile system itself by selecting the "Guidance notes" link at the top of each page.
If you have any questions that aren't answered on the guidance notes then please contact us.
You can also visit the discussion forums to chat with other probationers.
