ECT help please

[Berry987]

Hi,

I am nearly finishing my PGCE soon and I am looking for jobs for this September as an ECT. I would like to teach either reception or year 1. I know I need to pick one that I am the most comfortable doing, however I wanted some advice from teachers and recent/current ECT on what they would suggest and advice on what year group to chose from, between these two.

Also any advice in general will be much appreciated.

Thanks

You don't have to choose when applying for jobs. When I was an NQT (many years ago!) it was hard to get a job in my area so I applied from reception to year 6 just to try to get my NQT year sorted. I knew what I preferred but it was so competitive that you had to put your hat in the ring for many more than just those that fit what I thought I wanted. Just make sure your application is tailored to each school you apply for. I wouldn't think twice about a student teacher applying for EYFS and KS1.

As far as choosing, have you taught both on placement? Which do you prefer? Do you prefer the EYFS curriculum or the national curriculum? Do you like teaching in a play based classroom? Would you be happy teaching in a formal, bums on seats year 1? Do you only like year 1 if it's more play/provision based? Only you can really answer these.

I'd say most important is to find a school you like, especially as you're really committing to 2 years there now as an ECT.