Supporting the ECT Journey

Supporting the ECT Journey: My Experience as an ATTI Visiting Fellow

By Holly Quinton

English Teacher and the High Potential Coordinator at Bristnall Hall Academy

I am currently an English teacher and the High Potential Coordinator at Bristnall Hall Academy. I have been an ECF Visiting Fellow for the last year, and I have thoroughly enjoyed the process! I first decided to join the team when I saw the advertisement from ATTi. I have always loved working with ECTs and trainee teachers, and feel it is an absolute privilege to be able to support them on their journey. The ECF programme offers really clear guidance and support, ensuring that all facilitators have a focused programme to deliver. The sessions are an equal balance of information and modelling, ensuring that the elements of effective training are used to enhance the experience of an ECT, and their mentors!

 

Being a part of this team has given me so much more than I could have ever expected. I have been able to see, and be a part of, the planning process for ECTs and their mentors, which has given me a real insight into the preparation of CPD and the ways in which in can be developed further. It has also given me the opportunity to have an influence on trainees and ECTs at the early stages of their careers, meaning I feel a real sense of pride at supporting their journey from novice to expert.

 

I also feel I have a new appreciation for the research and development side of education, as this programme has research at its core and keeps up to date on new developments and teaching strategies for all involved. It is an incredible opportunity, and I would recommend it to anyone.