How Long Do You Have To Complete Your ECT Years?

In this blog, you will learn:

• What an ECT is.
• How long an individual has to complete their ECT years. 
• If an ECT can work as a Supply Teacher.
• Where the latest ECT jobs are and how to apply for them.

Starting out as a Teacher is both exciting and overwhelming, and one of the biggest milestones in those early years is completing your Early Career Teacher (ECT) induction. The process, which usually takes 2 years to complete, is designed to support a Teacher's development, build confidence in the classroom, and ensure they’re fully prepared for the demands of the profession. 

In our latest blog, we explore everything you need to know about this phase of a teaching career. We cover what an Early Career Teacher (ECT) is and whether an ECT can work as a Supply Teacher.

What is an ECT?

An ECT is an Early Career Teacher. This is the title given to a professional during their first 2 years in teaching. During this period, an Early Career Teacher (ECT) will have the chance to boost their classroom confidence and refine the skills gained during their teacher training.

During the first two years of teaching, individuals will receive support and training aligned with the Initial Teacher Training and Early Career Framework.

The acronym ECT replaced NQT in September 2021. Before this date Teachers in the early stages of their career were referred to as Newly Qualified Teachers. 

To work as an Early Career Teacher, an individual must obtain Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) by completing a teacher training program. This means an ECT is classed as a qualified Teacher.

How long do you have to complete your ECT years?

To complete the ECT years, an individual must have taught for 2 years or 6 full terms. In 2021, this criteria replaced the existing 1 year induction for NQTs. Should an ECT work part time, the period of time in which they can complete their ECT years can be extended. 

During the induction period, an ECT will undergo structured training and receive support to build on the skills gained during their university degree or training program. The period of time in which a person is classed as an Early Career Teacher is underpinned by the Early Career Framework. 

After obtaining Qualified Teacher Status, there is no specific timeframe for starting the induction into teaching. It is advised however to begin this as soon as possible to effectively put learning into practice. 

Can an ECT work as a Supply Teacher?

An ECT can work as a Supply Teacher, however, the provisions for this vary from that of a full-time Teacher. There is a five year period after qualifying in which a person is able to work on short term or day-to-day supply as an ECT. After this 5 year timeframe, a person is then only able to work on long term supply roles that will count towards their ECT. 

An ECT period can be completed on a supply basis on any placement that is at least one term long. An Early Career Teacher can complete this at multiple schools, however they must still complete a total of 6 school terms.
 
Secondary education recruitment specialist, Liam Jones, says, “Supply Teachers are often in demand, so this provides a great opportunity for an individual to gain experience as an ECT.”

Liam continues, “Supply Teachers are vital to the day to day running of a school and if an individual can build their classroom skills along the way, even better!”. 

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 2025, Spencer Clarke Group was awarded Best Public/Third Sector Recruitment Agency and Best Temporary Recruitment Agency at the Recruiter Awards. In 2024, Spencer Clarke Group was also named Recruitment Agency of the Year.