University hosts Newly Qualified Teachers' Conference

The National Union of Schoolmasters, the Union of Women Teachers and OFSTED, presented engaging and highly informative keynote lectures on what Newly Qualified Teachers (NQT’s) might expect as they embark on their career in teaching.

Jane Millward, Senior Inspector for her Majesty’s Inspectorate and Chris Keates, General Secretary of The National Union of Schoolmasters and the Union of Women Teachers were the keynote speakers at the event.

Bill Myers, Senior lecturer and Pathway leader in Psychology at the University’s Institute of Education and responsible for NQT support, said: “As a starting point for our ongoing support for our Newly Qualified Teachers the conference was a great success and is only a starting point.

“To have such high calibre speakers from the world of UK education address our former students is testament to the reputation of the University of Wolverhampton in the field of teacher training.

“It’s onwards and upwards in our role of developing our former students and their ability to enhance the education and employment opportunities for the young people of the West Midlands and beyond.” 

Both speakers addressed the pressures of starting to develop a career in primary and secondary teaching as well as identifying the support NQTs require.

Chris spoke about clear requirements for schools to support their new employees with regard to regular mentoring meetings and supportive lesson observations while Jane addressed the OFSTED expectations for inspections.

A Q&A from the audience took place after the speeches on a range of issues including the nature of faith-based assemblies in non-faith academies, the role of technology in education, inspecting academy chains and special education needs and disability provision under the new legislation. 

Jane Millward voiced OFSTED’s concern over the perceived limitations of the curriculum being delivered across some regional schools and academies.

Guest speakers worked together to display an effective understanding to showcase the importance of regular teacher training and developing student education to become successful teachers. 

ENDS

For more information please contact Danielle Taylor in the Media Relations Office on
01902 322448