How I Survived My Initial Teacher Training Year with North East SCITT (and What I Wish I Had Known)

Reflecting on my ITT year, I realise how transformative those nine months were. I learned more about myself than I ever expected including what I could handle, what I needed to protect, and how to make the most of a demanding but rewarding year. Here’s what helped me thrive during the year, along with a few lessons I wish I’d known sooner.

Work-life balance is everything

One of my best decisions was setting aside at least one full day off each week, no matter how heavy the workload was. Spending time with friends, family, or hobbies helped me recharge and start the next week with more energy. There were weeks when deadlines made this harder, but maintaining even small breaks made a huge difference. Whether you prefer a full day off, or having every evening free, the key is listening to your body and resting when you need it. The marking can probably wait until tomorrow.

Be strategic with when you complete paperwork

Midway through my training, I discovered the power of working smarter, not harder. Writing subject day reflections and notes into my SKA during a session instead of doing it at the end of the day saves both time and energy. Once my weekly workbooks became editable Word files, I began adding my weekly reflections in real time which saved me so much time. Completing admin tasks as you go will also give you more free time that you can use to do whatever recharges you and improves your mental health. It just makes sense!

Your mental health is important to protect

Ignoring stress doesn’t make it disappear. I learned the hard way that bottling up frustrations only led to resentment and burnout, and it resulted in seemingly minor things becoming a bigger deal internally than they probably warranted. Talk to someone you trust, seek support early, and find healthy outlets that work for you. Teaching demands so much of your physical and mental energy that protecting your wellbeing is essential, not selfish.

AI is not always your friend

I’m a big defender of ChatGPT. However, while it can be brilliant for refining writing or brainstorming lesson ideas, it’s no substitute for understanding core concepts yourself. At the start of my training year, I tried using it to quickly teach myself a Maths concept but it taught me a misconception instead! Use AI as a tool to help you prioritise tasks, role-play classroom scenarios or help you with eventual job applications, but build your own subject knowledge and confidence through self-study and your training days.

Prioritise behaviour

Strong relationships and consistent behaviour management are the foundation of effective teaching, which is the main reason why it is likely the first aspect of teaching that gets covered in training. Follow your school’s policy, but also develop your own classroom presence. Pupils respond to confidence and authenticity, two qualities that you will develop throughout your training year.

Build a support network

Connecting with other trainees from both the primary and secondary phases was invaluable for me in helping me understand the broader context of my teaching. The differences between phases offered fresh insights and mutual understanding, and the shared experiences that you will share as a cohort will remind you that you’re not alone.

Surviving your ITT year is about balance, reflection, and resilience, as it is important to protect your time, your energy, and your mind. Teaching is always going to be challenging and demanding, but it is also one of the most fulfilling journeys you’ll ever take, as long as you look after yourself in the process. Good luck with your training if you’re doing it right now, and I hope you consider training to teach if you haven’t made the decision yet.

Connor Lamb, Primary Trainee 2024/25