NQT/ECT top 5 tips with Andy Taylor aka @MrTs_NQTs

We've already had education royalty on the podcast (aka Maria Rumsey). Well now we have an icon of the online education world, Andy Taylor. And why is he a star? It's not just because he has more than 28,000 followers on Twitter (@MrTs_NQTs) but because he is arguably the most generous tweeter there is. He freely offers endless advice, support and guidance to everyone who needs it as they take their first steps as teachers. The education world, indeed the world in general, would be a better place if there were more folk like Andy.

In this podcast we talk about ...

• Day 1 of his teaching career when the Ofsted brown envelope was brought into the staffroom by the headteacher.
• The Ofsted visit came and went, but an inspector with great humanity recognised that Andy was going to make his mark, and a big one at that, in the educational world. See, inspectors can be right in their judgements.
• How teachers make a difference to the lives of many people, so be proud of what you do and don't take for granted the impact you have.
• The importance of being positive about being a teacher and trying not to moan as it depresses you and those around you.
• What to say to a student who asks you on a cold winter's day, "Do you like my muff?" whilst warming her hands in her furry fashion accessory as her mother watched on laughing.
• The value of developing social capital with parents and the local community; it's well worth the effort.
• Little moments becoming significant when you do the right thing at the right time over and over again to make sure that everyone (students and colleagues) can achieve as much as they can.
• Being good enough. Do not pressurise yourself to be the finished article immediately as no-one ever achieves that in teaching, and never doubt your ability to do the job.
• Knowing the expectations people have of you and the ones you have for them. As an ECT you do not need a folder of evidence - your day to day work is enough to prove what you do.
• Looking after yourself at all times. Teaching will take what you give to it and there is always something else you could be doing, so you have to learn when to stop. You must prioritise replenishing yourself, as you can't pour from an empty cup.
• Building relationships ... with everyone ... endlessly.
• Seeking support when you need it. There is so much available in schools but you've got to ask for it, so don't be afraid to do that.

You can connect with Andy on ...

Twitter @MrTs_NQTs