Your support network
Teaching assistants, administrative, site management and other support staff have a crucial role to play in the successful running of a school. They should be able to provide information about the culture and organisation of your school and provide invaluable support for your teaching, so make a point of getting to know them.
Try to involve teaching assistants in as much planning, preparation and assessment as possible – this will demonstrate that you value their support and will maximise your students’ potential.
It’s important to remember that many new teachers find it hard fitting in. As a new teacher, you should be assigned a more experienced member of staff as your mentor or induction tutor. They can be a great source of help and guidance during your first year of teaching. But if you don’t get along or feel you are not getting the support you need, this relationship can become strained. In this situation, it is vital to seek advice from a senior member of staff, who should be able to help resolve your difficulties. If you have asked for help from senior staff, but feel the situation has still not been resolved, you may wish to consult your union representative.
Improve this section of the Starting Out Guide
What would you add to this section of our Starting Out Guide to help newly qualified teachers? Maybe you have an experience, annectdote, resource or idea you'd like to share. Read what other teachers have added and make your additions here.