Flying Start: Your Launchpad into Teaching

While embarking on your Initial Teacher Training (ITT) is the first step and a real milestone in your chosen teaching career, we know the start of your journey can also feel both exciting and daunting. To ensure that you have the best possible start, the National Institute of Teaching (NIoT) has developed a crucial component of its ITT course, the ‘Flying Start’ programme - a comprehensive one-week induction designed to equip new trainees with the essential basic tools and knowledge, and build the confidence needed, to step into the classroom.

What is Flying Start?

Flying Start week includes sessions on general pedagogy, subject and curriculum knowledge, and a valuable school experience taster day. These are all designed to give you the foundational knowledge of how to begin to teach children.

Here's a snapshot of what to expect:

• Date: 1-5 July, followed by an intensive two weeks in late August/early September
• Timetable: Receive a full timetable with session details.
• Activities: Sessions on teaching fundamentals, practical skills, insights into effective teaching methods and strategies. pedagogical approaches, subject-specific knowledge, curriculum insights, understanding the teaching environment, how to create an effective learning atmosphere and engage with students and a one-day hands-on taster experience in a school setting.
• Networking: Meet your peers from the 2024-25 cohort, connect with regional contacts for any queries and start building a supportive community.

Preparing for Flying Start

No specific preparation is required before attending Flying Start. Just come ready to learn and engage with your peers and the NIoT staff.

Here are a few tips to help you get the most out of the week:

• Bring a Pen and Notebook/Tablet: You'll be taking notes throughout the sessions.
• Stay Open-Minded: The programme is designed to introduce you to life in the classroom, so there’s no need to worry if you feel like a beginner. Don’t worry about having specific teaching knowledge at this stage; the training will cover everything.
• Collaborate: Engage actively with your peers and instructors; this is a great opportunity to build your support network.
• Enjoy the Process: Although the training is intensive, it's also meant to be enjoyable and confidence-boosting.

Real Trainee Experiences

Previous trainees have found the Flying Start week transformative. Here’s what past trainees with the NIoT have said about their Flying Start experience:

Confidence Boost: “At the beginning of Flying Start week, starting the training was terrifying! By the end of the week, I had made new friends within our cohort, met new people, and gained so much confidence. It has reassured me that I already have a lot of pre-existing knowledge that I can develop into professional practices.”

Engaging Sessions: “It's been an absolutely brilliant week. I expected this week to be entirely reading through policies, but it has been engaging, fun, and incredibly useful. I feel ten times more prepared for my ITT year as a result of Flying Start.”

Supportive Environment: “Thank you to all the NIoT staff who have given up their time to educate us. Every member of staff has been amazing and welcoming. I am excited to see what the next year brings...I am truly grateful for the opportunity.”

Remember, Flying Start is just the beginning. With these foundational tools and the support of the NIoT community, you'll be well on your way to becoming an outstanding teacher.