As a new ECT, you may be wondering what schools are looking for, after all, if you know this you’ll have everything you need to secure your first teaching role. 

We work with many ECTs and know how daunting the application and interview process can be so we wanted to make it easier for you with this list of what schools are looking for from our schools themselves.

• Classroom management skills - use examples of how you have managed behaviour during your PGCE placement e.g stickers for rewards or tasks you’ve done to settle a class

• Someone confident with the UK curriculum - BBC Bitesize is good for finding schemes and topics or check out Gov.UK

• Confidence is key so fake it until you make it. Be aware of your body language, make sure you smile and project your voice

• Passion and commitment to education - think about why you got into education and what your motivations are and make sure you talk about them

• Results-driven

• Experience teaching in multiple classrooms is liked but not required - volunteering or supply work is a great way to gain experience in a variety of different environments 

• Someone familiar with schemes of work - i.e EYFS & KS1 Phonics Schemes, Read Write etc

• A team player - no school day is the same and you might have to take on additional responsibilities such as after-school clubs. Showing willingness to get stuck in makes you stand out in a school environment, which is important if you wish to progress

Demonstrating these qualities during your interview is key to landing your first dream role. However, remember that you shouldn’t just list off all of these qualities, you will need to use evidence of when you showed them.

If you have an interview coming up why not also check out our interview tips, this way you will be sure to ace your interview!

Find out why supply is perfect for ECTs here!