The Trainee to ECT Podcast: Recent Episodes
Twinkl Trainee Teachers Team
A podcast from Twinkl, designed to help trainee teachers and ECTs (NQTs) go into the classroom feeling confident. Ashleigh and Simeon are your hosts on a mission to help you navigate the highs and lows of beginning a career in teaching.
In this special episode, Simeon is joined by Hannah Lawrence, the Twinkl SEND segment manager. She shares ways trainee teachers and ECTs can break down barriers and adopt inclusive practice in their classrooms.
Twinkl SEND: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/ulyhg
Twinkl EAL: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/7vzcc
In this episode, Simeon and our new team member Gloria go over what you can expect when your begin your teaching placement in a primary or secondary school.
Free trial: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/f9y62
Placement packs: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/qc1i4
Twinkl Beyond: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/ci9gt
In this episode, Simeon looks at ways to feel prepared and ready for your ECT induction and offers his tips along the way.
Free Trial: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/okts9
Seating Plan Resource: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/fig40
Evidencing the Teachers' Standards: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/lq82m
In this episode, Simeon is joined by Twinkl's National Wellbeing Lead, Beck Dawson. They discuss wellbeing challenges for trainee teachers and ECTs as well as offering wellbeing tips and resources.
Simeon's summer blog π https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/v8301
Becky's blog on boundaries π https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/hmatn
Mind resources π https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/rnau9
In this episode, Simeon and Ashleigh go over the many options open to teachers who haven't found a full-time teaching position yet or don't want one.
Twinkl Free Trial ππ https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/1lr2bs
Twinkl Supply Team ππ https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/1isfv5
Twinkl Tutors Team ππ https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/skoe1
In this episode, we're joined by Katie, a highly organised and motivated trainee teacher undertaking a paid SCITT route that also offers a PGCE and QTS. We discuss what an average week looks like and Katie shares her advice on many aspects of training, including staying on top of your workload.
Routes into Teaching Resource ππ https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/1fi6ck
Free Trial ππ https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/qhz6p
In this episode, Ashleigh and Simeon go through the job hunting process step by step, offering their tips and advice along the way.
Free trial: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/hflm3
Job Hunting Mega Pack: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/1jpost
Mock Interviews: https://forms.gle/qfuN6uq4HthreZbc7
Personal Statement Feedback: https://forms.gle/r6zScgPfZSPuFxaw8
In this special, collaborative episode, Simeon is joined by Helen Bodell from the Twinkl EAL team. They discuss way trainee teachers and ECTs can support children with EAL.
Trainee EAL resource https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/mmru0
EAL homepage https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/128z6c
Free trial https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/xsd7c
In this episode, Simeon is joined by returning guest Jack from How to be a Teacher to discuss the best ways to build positive relationships with students and the impact this can have.
Free trial: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/1dsmnh
Positive Relationships CPD: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/1ehr1e
Jack's Blog: https://jackwatson1807.substack.com/p/diary-of-a-teacher
In this episode, Simeon and Ashleigh discuss ways to finish the term on a high and recharge over the festive period.
Twinkl Free Trial: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/1a9jzf
ECT Festive Checklist: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/iwkgn
In this episode, Simeon and Ashleigh go through the process of planning a lesson and offer tips along the way.
Lesson Plan Template
Objectives
Romans Pack
National Numeracy Charity schoolsandfamilies@nationalnumeracy.org.uk
In this episode, Simeon and Ashleigh are joined by Hannah Lawrence from the Twinkl SEND segment. We discuss Labour's manifesto promise to 'break down barriers and shatter the class ceiling' and what that might mean for teachers working with children with SEND.
Trainee and ECT Tutorial: Classroom routines ππ https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/mogmt
In this episode, Simeon Ashleigh discuss ways to set yourself up for success whether you are beginning your teacher training or your ECT induction.
Trainee Teacher Starter Pack ππ https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/nraml
In this episode, Ashleigh and Simeon discuss ways to relax and enjoy yourself over the summer holidays, as well as a few ways to get ready for September (if you feel like it). π€ποΈ
Simeon's blog on what to do over summer ππ https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/7c7wv
Blog on getting ready for September ππ https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/c6tlj
In this episode, we are joined by a special guest, Mr Hallahan, a TikToker and teacher who has just completed his training year. He takes the opportunity to look back on everything he learned and discuss what he loves about teaching.
ECT Induction pack ππhttps://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/y9j0m
Follow Mr H here:
TikTok - @mrhallahan
Instagram - @cianhallahan
In this episode, Simeon and Ashleigh share their best tips for writing fantastic school reports. They also play a report-based game, which you can try at home.
AI report writer tool ππ https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/6pout
General report statements ππ https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/y1bv3
In this epsiode, we discuss all aspects of tutoring with our lovely guest, Susie, from Twinkl Tutors. We talk about the practicalities, how much you might earn and whether it is something you can do alongside full-time teaching.
Tackling Low-level Behaviour Resource ππ https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/q9elz
Everything you need to get going with tutoring! ππ https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/yc5bv
Launching your business with confidence ππ https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/9x23k
Free Taster Pack ππ https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/19jj34
Twinkl Tutors podcast page ππ https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/aqiwf
Personal Statement Feedback Form ππ https://forms.gle/GRfSkftFhqsmth3b7
In this episode, Simeon interviews special guest Jack from Diary of a Teacher and we discuss ways to work well with other adults, primarily TAs. Ashleigh and Simeon share their top tips too!
Working with other adults resource: ππ https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/1ds3mm
Jack's blog: ππ https://jackwatson1807.substack.com/
In this special episode, we are joined by Ketrina (@teacherteresauk), a TikTok teacher with millions of views, who is a fierce advocate for work-life balance. We talk about the realities of teaching in 2024, and what she does to ensure she gets free time outside of work and continues to enjoy teaching.
Links π
Ketrina's TikTok π https://www.tiktok.com/@teacherteresauk
Ketrina's Instagram π https://www.instagram.com/teacherteresauk/
Tips on Work-Life Balance resourceπ https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/1f69w9
In this special episode, Simeon and Ashleigh are joined by Twinkl Digest writer Amy to discuss the newly announced Initial Teacher Training and Early Career Framework (ITTECF).
We discuss the proposed changes and when they will come into effect so you can feel confident wherever you are on your teaching journey.
Amy's article: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/125e5t
Amy's update: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/1ig7r1
The guidance: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/initial-teacher-training-and-early-career-framework
More from us: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/1kfpu7
Ashleigh is back! In this episode, she and Simeon discuss lesson observation and share tips to help you feel prepared and confident.
More about us: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/1kfpu7
Ashleigh's back! In this episode, she and Simeon discuss the different types of planning, how to plan from scratch, how to adpat plans, and they share some planning top tips.
Skills map:https://www.twinkl.co.uk/resource/example-map-skills-progression-t-g-1676630338
Books list: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/book-list
More about us: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/1kfpu7
In this episode, Simeon is joined by Sam Cairns from Art Fund to discuss the importance of the arts in teaching. We share tips for getting the most out of museum visits and ways you can create more opportunities to explore the arts in your teaching.
https://www.artfund.org/teacher-art-pass
More about us: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/1kfpu7
In this episode, Simeon is joined by Mitisha and our new team member, Harriet. We discuss common behaviour management concerns and scenarios and share our best tips to help you feel confident managing behaviour.
Tackling Low-Level Behaviour resource: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/resource/tackling-low-level-behaviour-t-tp-1638796383
Twitter: @TraineeTwinkl
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TwinklTraineeTeachers
More about us: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/1kfpu7
In this podcast, Simeon is joined by fellow team members Hannah and Mitisha to discuss common questions and concerns for those starting teacher training and offer our best advice and tips for success.
Our teaching term Wiki can be found here: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/teaching-wiki
In this episode, Simeon in joined by special guests, Dan and Molly, from the Twinkl KS2 Team. They share their best tips for getting ready for September as an ECT in any year group as well as some special tips for those in key stage 2.
You can join the Twinkl KS2 team's Facebook group here π https://www.facebook.com/groups/twinklks2
In this episode, Simeon is joined by Jon Park from Twinkl Digest. Jon outlines ways AI might impact teaching and how it could help trainee teachers and ECTs.
You can read Twinkl Digest here: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/news
In this episode, Simeon talks to Lowenna Janssens (Mrs_J_primary on TikTok) about her experiences with supply teaching. She's offers some great tips and gives her insights on the positive aspects of starting your career with supply teaching.
In this episode, Simeon brings together our best job hunting tips from previous episodes into one super episode to help you feel more confident on your job hunt.
Teacher Interview Questions: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/resource/teacher-job-interview-questions-for-trainee-teachers-and-ects-t-tp-2682042
Job Hunting Mega Pack: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/resource/job-hunting-mega-pack-for-trainee-teachers-and-ects-t-tp-2683339
Executive Summary: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/resource/executive-summary-t-tp-2679737
Personal Statement Writing Tips: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/blog/personal-statement-writing-tips-for-teaching-positions
Personal Statement Feeback Form: https://t.co/37kzS0SPux
In this episode, Simeon and Ashleigh speak with Sam Kendall from the Eden Project on their work supporting ECTs. We talk about how to have a sustainable career and ways to engage children in learning about the environment. Sam is full of interesting stories, and her tales about teaching abroad are not to be missed.
Find out more about the Eden Project's work with ECTs:
http://www.edenproject.com/learn/schools/teacher-training/early-career-teacher-weekends
In this episode, Ashleigh and Simeon discuss cross-curricular learning, explaining what it is and why you might want to try it in your classroom. They also interview Emily, a secondary trainee with some great ideas on using a cross-curricular approach in secondary schools.
In this episode, Ashleigh and Simeon discuss ways you can succeed and thrive on your second placement. They share some top tips and reflect on what they learned from their second placements.
Sophie's article: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/gw5km
In this episode, Ashleigh and Simeon talk about ways you can reflect and recharge over the festive season. They also challenge each other to quizzes and have a lovely interview with trainee teacher Ms Amin about her experiences this term. It's sure to put you a the festive mood! π€π πβ¨
In this very special episode, we are joined by Andrew Taylor of Mr T's NQTs. Andrew has over 39,000 followers on Twitter and dedicates much of his free time to answering questions from trainee teachers and ECTs. He's a lovely person and gives great advice so we were thrilled to talk to him about how to stay happy in teaching.
https://twitter.com/MrTs_NQTs
Digest: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/news/how-to-avoid-ect-burnout-as-you-begin-a-new-term
In this episode, Simeon and Ashleigh share their best tips to help you have a positive experience with your parents' evenings whether you are a trainee teacher or an ECT.
Digest: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/news/how-to-handle-difficult-conversations-with-parents-as-a-trainee-teacher
In this episode, Simeon and Ashleigh share their best tips to help you have a positive experience with your parents' evenings whether you are a trainee teacher or an ECT.
Digest: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/news/how-to-handle-difficult-conversations-with-parents-as-a-trainee-teacher
In this episode, Simeon and Ashleigh go through everything trainee teachers need to know as they start their first placements. They cover what you can expect, what the school will expect from you and share their top tips for a successful placement.
Digest - Top Tips for Surviving Your First Placement: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/news/top-tips-for-surviving-your-first-placement
Observing Teaching Template: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/resource/trainee-teacher-tutorial-observing-teaching-t-tp-2660750
In this episode, Simeon and Ashleigh go through everything trainee teachers need to know as they start their first placements. They cover what you can expect, what the school will expect from you and share their top tips for a successful placement.
Digest - Top Tips for Surviving Your First Placement: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/news/top-tips-for-surviving-your-first-placement
Observing Teaching Template: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/resource/trainee-teacher-tutorial-observing-teaching-t-tp-2660750
In this special episode, Ashleigh and Simeon give their best tips and advice to help you have a happy and productive first week as an ECT.
Good luck to all the ECTs out there for your first week!
In this special episode, Ashleigh and Simeon give their best tips and advice to help you have a happy and productive first week as an ECT.
Good luck to all the ECTs out there for your first week!
In this episode, Ashleigh and Simeon give an overview of what you can expect on your teacher training year and offer some sage advice.
In this episode, Ashleigh and Simeon give an overview of what you can expect on your teacher training year and offer some sage advice.
In this episode, Ashleigh and Simeon discuss ways trainee teachers and ECTs can reflect on and celebrate all of their achievements at the end of the year. There is also a lovely montage of messages from the team at the end. Congratulations to all the trainee teachers and ECTs out there!
In this episode, Ashleigh and Simeon discuss ways trainee teachers and ECTs can reflect on and celebrate all of their achievements at the end of the year. There is also a lovely montage of messages from the team at the end. Congratulations to all the trainee teachers and ECTs out there!
In this episode, Simeon and Ashleigh discuss what teachers can do to prepare if they have found a job for September and what they can do if they haven't. They also interview Alisha, a teacher who started her career by doing supply teaching.
Here is the link to the episode we mentioned: https://redcircle.com/shows/267430fb-5cbe-49ff-9bb9-ec4126cfba84/episodes/6a5e1806-cd62-480e-a1ac-2fecfb6f2047?_ga=2.244877829.1041577009.1653307616-334379120.1653307616
In this episode, Simeon and Ashleigh discuss what teachers can do to prepare if they have found a job for September and what they can do if they haven't. They also interview Alisha, a teacher who started her career by doing supply teaching.
Here is the link to the episode we mentioned: https://redcircle.com/shows/267430fb-5cbe-49ff-9bb9-ec4126cfba84/episodes/6a5e1806-cd62-480e-a1ac-2fecfb6f2047?_ga=2.244877829.1041577009.1653307616-334379120.1653307616
In this episode Ashleigh and Simeon discuss the role of trainee teacher and ECT mentors. We give some ideas for avoiding potential issues and advice on getting on with your mentor. We also take a look at the mentor's side of things and have a fantastic interview with our guest mentor Josh (who has over 1.4 million views on TikTok).
To send us your personal statement, use the following link: https://forms.gle/taTfQWmJbZdby7sE7
In this episode, Ashleigh and Simeon share their tips for writing personal statements and explain how you can send your statement to us for feedback. They also discuss our recent Job Hunting week and give away a free mock interview.
After listening to the epsiode, you can send us your statement here: https://forms.gle/jmZgC9ih1iad6wqC6
Here is the blog we mentioned: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/blog/personal-statement-writing-tips-for-teaching-positions
The live session: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UBKcPm7y6tk
And the free resource we mentioned: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/resource/executive-summary-t-tp-2679737
Good luck with your job hunt! π
In this episode Simeon and Ashleigh talk about the important first steps of your job hunting journey. They discuss where and when to start looking for jobs and how to find out if a school is right for you. They are also joined by Twinkl Digestβs Sophie, who gives her own top tips and advice on how you can feel equipped to start the process of finding that elusive first teaching position.
Job Hunting Mega Pack: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/resource/job-hunting-mega-pack-for-trainee-teachers-and-ects-t-tp-2683339
Sophie's Job-Hunting Series: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/blog/securing-a-job-part-1-choosing-a-school
https://www.twinkl.co.uk/blog/securing-a-job-part-two
https://www.twinkl.co.uk/blog/securing-a-job-part-three-tackling-the-interview-day
On todayβs episode Simeon and Ashleigh discuss all of the little opportunities in the day where you can save yourself some much needed time. They are also joined by current ECT, Chloe, who gives an insight into her life at school and they play a time saving game that you can play along with at home.
If you feel you never have enough time, then this is the podcast for you!
In this fun episode, the team discuss their favourite things about Christmas in school, play a teacher-y Christmas game (which you can join in with at home) and share their top tips for recovering over the festive period. Merry Christmas! ππ
Warning: We discuss the existence of Santa Claus a little bit, so it would be best not to listen with children present. ππ π½
In this episode, Simeon, Hannah and new team member Donna clearly define and explain the process of differentiation. They also discuss how you can plan for differentiation and how differentiation can happen spontaneously in your classroom.
In this episode, Adam, Simeon and Twinkl Digest's Sophie look at common low-level behaviours you might encounter as a trainee teacher or ECT and give their tips on how to manage them effectively.
In this very special Mental Health Week episode, we talk to Sam and Matt from the Teacher of Tomorrow Podcast (@TofTpod on Twitter) about their experiences of managing workload as trainee teachers. They give an honest account of their experiences and share what they've learned along the way.
In this episode we are joined by several former teachers, all of whom found different routes into teaching. We discuss the various options open to you if you haven't secured a full-time teaching role for September or if you don't want one.
Our special guest headteacher, Oliver Wright (@Oliverslt on Twitter) returns in this episode to discuss the dos and don'ts of job interviews from a headteacher's perspective. This episode is full of valuable tips and advice. If you have a teaching interview coming up, it's highly recommended!
In this episode, we are joined by job hunting guru Theo Griff (@Theo_Griff on Twitter). Theo has written two books on job hunting, given seminars, advised major educational publications and taught for over fifty years!
Here she shares her sage wisdom with us to help you get your job application right. π
You can find the resources mentioned here: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/resource/executive-summary-t-tp-2679737
We are joined in this episode by former headteacher and Twinkl SLT manager Oliver Wright (@OliverSLT on Twitter). He tells us about the process of recruiting a new teacher from a headteacher's point of view and gives some excellent advice on job hunting.