Setting new teachers up for success from day one

As we settle in to a new year, we welcome our new teaching staff and look back to our first cohort of teachers that completed the College’s new Teacher Induction Programme. The introduction of the programme last academic year, marks an important milestone in the College's commitment to supporting, developing and retaining outstanding teaching staff.

Launched to provide a consistent and high-quality start for new teachers joining the College, this innovative programme combines practical training, coaching, mentoring and professional development opportunities designed to help staff feel confident, supported and ready to succeed in the classroom from day one.

A structured induction programme

The first two weeks of the dedicated induction are focused on preparing new teachers for teaching at the College. The programme brings together face-to-face sessions, live online learning, peer observation, mentoring and independent study, alongside opportunities to work with experienced colleagues and specialist staff from the Teaching Skills Academy.

Through practical training, structured reflection and collaboration, participants develop their understanding of effective teaching practice, lesson planning, inclusive learning strategies and the digital tools available to support students.

"You are valued here. What you do matters."

As well as providing teaching and learning approaches to new teachers, the programme also introduces the culture and values that underpin life at Abingdon & Witney College.

The induction creates a strong sense of belonging from the outset, showing new teachers that their development is important and that our staff are valued, supported and recognised for the difference they make to students.

Early feedback from participants has been overwhelmingly positive, with new colleagues highlighting how supported and welcomed they feel, alongside a clear understanding of the high standards expected across the College. One member of the first cohort, GCSE Maths Teacher Kristina Robinson, described the experience as transformational:

"This has been the best start I have ever had to a new job. I have never felt so welcomed."

The initiative forms part of the College's wider investment in teaching excellence, and what sets the approach apart is the investment in both time and trust, giving staff the space to grow professionally and the autonomy to shape that development themselves; creating a culture where colleagues can build on their strengths, develop new skills and feel empowered to achieve their ambitions.

This commitment extends well beyond induction. Teachers are encouraged to continue their professional learning through opportunities such as EdFest, coaching and supportive observations with the Teaching Skills Academy, and dedicated Wednesday afternoon development time.

The programme is closely supported by the Teaching Skills Academy, which provides ongoing coaching, professional development and opportunities for teachers to reflect on and refine their practice.

Jamie Green, Head of the Teaching Skills Academy, said the programme is designed to support teachers at every stage of their career.

“Teacher Induction is about helping teachers connect, or reconnect, with the value of their role and ensuring they have the best possible start at Abingdon & Witney College. Whether someone is new to teaching or has more than 30 years’ experience, there is always something valuable to gain from reflecting on practice, exploring new ideas and understanding what makes teaching successful in our context. The programme is an interactive introduction to how we do things here, helping colleagues understand our expectations, access tailored support and recognise the positive impact they can have on students’ lives.”

Positive impact

The impact of the programme is perhaps best reflected in the feedback from participants:

"All three sessions worked really well. The tutors created a safe, comfortable and supportive environment, while helping me think differently about student-centred learning and reflect on how I can improve as a teacher."

"This is exactly what was missing at my last job."

"Best induction I've ever had."

"A perfect opportunity to get immersed early and adopt a 'start as you mean to go on' approach."

"My first week at Abingdon & Witney College was outstanding. The teacher induction gave me the confidence to walk into my first lesson knowing exactly what to do, with access to the systems, resources and support I needed."

The successful completion of the first cohort represents the beginning of what is expected to become a key part of the College's professional development offer. The programme will continue to welcome new groups of teachers, helping ensure every new member of teaching staff receives the support they need to develop their confidence, competence and professional practice.

The College would like to recognise the many colleagues who have contributed to the programme's success. Special thanks go to Helen Brown, Will Williams, Sandra Carrasco, Lisa Colley, Traci Huggins, Kathryn Buratta, Nikkie Almond, Joyce Sahonta, Hazel Friel, Bryan Fitzpatrick, Emma Williams, Phoebe Shepheard, Megan Jones, Nikita Haddington-Milner, Helen Moody, Amanda Isard, along with the curriculum mentors, Teaching Skills Academy coaches and curriculum leadership teams whose support helps new teachers feel welcomed, valued and equipped to succeed from the moment they join the College.

Looking for a teaching career where you'll be supported to learn, develop and thrive? Visit our Work for Us page to view our latest opportunities.