Over 90 new probationary teachers, who will take up teaching positions in schools across Aberdeen from August 2024, on the Teacher Induction Scheme (TIS), have received a warm welcome from Aberdeen City Council’s Education and Children’s Services team.
TIS provides a guaranteed 1-year ‘probationary’ training post in a local authority to every eligible student graduating with a teaching qualification from one of Scotland’s Higher Education Institutions.
The event, held at the Beach Ballroom, began with a welcome speech by Shona Milne, the council’s Chief Officer - Education and Lifelong Learning, who explained that staff would be well supported by mentors and colleagues throughout the next year, shared reflections on her own career and encouraged staff new to Aberdeen to use weekends to explore the city and the surrounding countryside.
Current probationers, William MacSween at Gilcomstoun School and Kerry McManus at Lochside Academy, who are about to complete their probationer year, shared advice from their own experiences, and the key to a successful year ahead.
Presentations from colleagues across the city focussed on prioritising positive relationships and exploring effective pedagogy (the method of how teachers teach, in theory and in practice) in the classroom.
Fiona Black, who is taking up post in August as Deputy Head Teacher at Kittybrewster School shared how probationers would be supported throughout the year with access to a mentor.
Pupils from Kingswells School – Cally, Grace and Katy (P7), and pupils of Hanover Street School – Aiza, Iffat, Pavel, Sophia and Tessie (P5), shared what they are looking for in a ‘great teacher’.
The pupils at Hanover Street School said that a great teacher is “kind, friendly and caring, organised, thoughtful and always there” for pupils. They “respect children’s rights, give pupils opportunities and make learning fun”.
While the pupils at Kingswells School, believe a good teacher is the kind of person who makes you feel “valued through positive reinforcement and kindness”. A good teacher will give children “lifelong lessons” that will stay with them forever such as treating others how you want to be treated, speaking up if you want your voice to be heard, and if you work hard the world is your oyster.
New probationer Eilidh Stewart, who starts at Hazlehead Academy in August, described how she felt after the event: “I really enjoyed hearing what the primary pupils think makes a good teacher. I also really enjoyed the sessions delivered, they were engaging and very informative.”
Roa Abdelaal, who takes up post at Kaimhill School, said: “I feel like I’m more ready to start my probation year. It’s reassuring to know that there’s lots of resources and information provided for us along the way.”
Fiona Hay, who will be starting at Stoneywood School in August said: “I loved hearing the pupils from the schools and also hearing about what's coming next. I am now really excited about what's ahead.”
The event was supported by colleagues from the Teacher Unions - the Educational Institute for Scotland (EIS), the Scottish Secondary Teachers Association (SSTA), and the National Association of Schoolmasters Union of Women Teachers (NASUWT).
Pupils from Kingswell School and Hanover Street School explained what makes a great teacher to new probationary teachers in Aberdeen.