As I reflect on my journey as an Early Career Teacher (ECT) with One Cumbria, I am filled with gratitude for the support and guidance that has shaped my professional development. Completing my ECT induction period has been a transformative experience, and the Early Career Framework (ECF) has been instrumental in my growth as a teacher.
From the outset, One Cumbria provided a structured and positive environment that was essential for my transition from trainee to practitioner. The program was meticulously designed to align with the ECF, ensuring that I had access to the best resources and support networks.
One Cumbria organised a series of seminar sessions and resources focused on the core areas outlined by the ECF: behaviour management, pedagogy, curriculum, assessment, and professional behaviours. These sessions were not only informative but also interactive, providing me with tools and strategies to enhance my teaching practice. The emphasis on evidence-based methods ensured that I was implementing best practices in my classroom.
The ECF framework has been a cornerstone of my professional development, enabling me to achieve significant milestones in my career. The framework emphasised the importance of curriculum knowledge. Through One Cumbria’s support, I gained a deeper understanding of the curriculum content and how to deliver it in a coherent and accessible manner. This has been vital in ensuring that my students achieve their learning objectives. This knowledge and experience enabled me to take on the role of Computer Science Curriculum Coordinator, where I have been able to shape and enhance the computer science curriculum to better meet the needs of our students and to be an ambitious curriculum.
The comprehensive support and development provided by One Cumbria and the ECF have not only enhanced my teaching skills but also prepared me for leadership roles. Starting this September, in my third year of teaching, I am thrilled to join the Senior Leadership Team with responsibility for Engagement and Technology at St. Benedict’s Catholic High School. This new role will allow me to leverage my skills and experiences to drive technology integration and foster student engagement across the school.
Completing my ECT induction period with One Cumbria has been a profound and rewarding journey. The support of the ECF and One Cumbria has empowered me to excel in my teaching career, take on the role of Computer Science Curriculum Coordinator, and step into a senior leadership position. I am excited about the future and committed to continuing my professional growth, contributing to the success of students and school communities.
I am currently in the middle of completing an NPQSL with One Cumbria. The online seminars have been great! The information that has been covered throughout the modules so far has been relevant and valuable to someone wanting to progress in their career. I will be joining the Senior Leadership Team in my school in September and the scenarios covered and the discussions with other practitioners have really prepared me for this progression and prepared me with knowledge and skills to apply within my own setting. The tasks on Brightspace are very thorough and detailed and cover all elements needed to become equipped in leadership. I would recommend the NPQ to others.
Hello! I’m Sarah and I’m from Tebay in South Cumbria, and currently working at Netherhall School in Maryport. My professional interests are in making English exciting for future learners through diversifying the curriculum; using oracy; and using drama, especially when teaching plays! Personally – I am a HUGE Swiftie (the attached picture is preparation for the Eras tour).
As a teacher with an ADHD brain, often I can try to put the cart before the horse and try to complete everything at once. On the NPQ course, I learnt to take my time with projects: it’s ok if something takes a couple of years – in fact, that probably means it’s done more thoroughly! The modules on implementation especially have helped me to prioritise and give myself grace to adapt (and not take it personally!) if a project is not successful straight away. In my current practice, I am aiming to practice what I preach and use the implementation work to help the department to modernise the Key Stage 3 curriculum for English.
I have completed an NPQH with One Cumbria. The training modules and online seminars helped me become a more reflective practitioner and to consider alternative viewpoints and ways of working. I was able to apply the knowledge and skills to my own practice and make positive changes within our school. The collaboration and networking with colleagues is invaluable and has created a support network amongst us to continue to improve as we move through our careers.
Tanya is Headteacher at Flimby Primary School, a vibrant village school at the heart of the community. Nestled by the sea and the railway and once home to the many coal pits in the area. Flimby primary school are soon to celebrate 150 years!
