From Training to Teaching: Is An ECT a Qualified Teacher?

In this blog, you will learn:

• What the Early Career Framework is.
• If an ECT is a qualified Teacher.
• If you become an ECT after completing a PGCE. 
• Where the latest ECT jobs are and how to apply for them.

Thinking about a career in teaching? You’ve probably heard the term Early Career Teacher, or ECT for short. An ECT is a Teacher in their first two years of the profession, supported through the Early Career Framework. 

It’s safe to say there are plenty of people embarking on a career in teaching. According to the Department for Education, 22,536 new Teachers began their ECT journey in the 2024/25 academic year.

But here’s the real question, does being an ECT mean you’re a fully qualified teacher?

In our latest blog, we uncover everything you need to know about the Early Career Framework and explore the option of pursuing a PGCE. 

What is the Early Career Framework?

The Early Career Framework (ECF) was introduced nationally in 2021. The introduction marked an important step in highlighting what Early Career Teachers should understand and accomplish as they begin their journey in education.

The Early Career Framework is a professional development program, lasting 2 years and replacing the one-year Newly Qualified Teacher program. Throughout the duration of the Early Career Framework, ECTs are provided with two years of evidence-based development. 

Education recruitment specialist, Liam Jones, says, “One to one support from an experienced education professional is available which is great because this allows ECTs to enhance their classroom skills and learn from those with first-hand experience.”

The Early Career Framework provides research-backed content focused on effective teaching practices and is funded by the Department for Education.

Is an ECT a qualified Teacher?

The simple answer is yes, to become an Early Career Teacher, an individual must first obtain Qualified Teacher Status (QTS). An aspiring Teacher can achieve QTS by pursuing and completing a teacher training programme. 

In this program, participants will acquire the skills necessary to effectively manage a classroom. Some options also enable trainee Teachers to work in a school while earning a salary as they pursue their studies.

Once an individual earns Qualified Teacher Status, they are known as an Early Career Teacher. This term replaced the ‘Newly Qualified Teacher’ title. A Teacher will be referred to as an Early Career Teacher (ECT) during the first two years of their teaching career as they begin the Early Career Framework.

Can you become an ECT after completing a PGCE?

A PGCE is a Postgraduate Certificate in Education. A PGCE is a common route for aspiring Teachers to enter the teaching profession. In England, a PGCE is not required to become a Teacher. However, combining theoretical knowledge with practical teaching experience can help candidates stand out when applying for teaching jobs.

Despite a PGCE not being mandatory, QTS is essential in order to practice as an Early Career Teacher. Pursuing a PGCE with QTS is a popular pathway into teaching. It equips aspiring teachers with the vital skills and experience necessary to start their journey as Early Career Teachers (ECTs).

ECT Teacher jobs

If you’re searching for an ECT Teacher job, why not take a look at the latest ECT Teacher vacancies, or simply upload your CV to be notified when a relevant position becomes available.

Recruiting Early Career Teachers?

As experts in mainstream and SEND school recruitment, we support schools with their temporary, permanent and temp-perm staffing needs. 

We currently work with hundreds of schools and have exclusive access to some of the best Teachers, Teaching Assistants and Early Career Teachers in the North West.

If you’re struggling to fill an Early Career Teacher vacancy, why not get in touch with one of our team to see how we can help?

• Primary schools - Jimmy Callagher 
• Secondary schools - Liam Jones
• SEND schools - Jamie Heath

Meet Liam Jones 

Who is Spencer Clarke Group?

Established in 2017, we’re an award winning and progressive recruitment agency based in the heart of the North West. Our reputation is built on trust, expertise and an unwavering commitment to exceed expectations. 

In 2024, we were named Recruitment Agency of the Year at the prestigious Recruiter Awards, an accolade we are extremely proud of.