These are the selection of comments from new starters to the staff team at Hinde House.

Mr. Bill Firth (Induction Tutor)

Our induction programme is discussed and adapted based on the on-going needs of the new staff, which can range from GTP colleagues right through to Assistant Headteachers.  The published agendas always put aside meeting time for a “Thought Forum” where the realities of everyday teaching can be addressed and honest, support provided from within the group or outside if appropriate.

Within the programme, units are designed to have a positive impact on developing professional and constructive relationships, working within the law and frameworks, developing professional knowledge and understanding, and developing school practice – often involving other key members of staff.

Evaluations at the end of previous years have always been extremely positive and contributory to developmental planning for the future.

Miss. Jane Witherford (GTP 2007-08)

During my first year at Hinde House School, I was made to feel immediately welcome.  The support structure is brilliant, with weekly induction sessions for new staff and supportive colleagues at every level. 

I found the induction programme particularly useful in clarifying any aspects of school life that I was unsure of or just seeking advice on particular issues.  The opportunity to discuss my experiences with other new staff was reassuring and I got some great ideas as well.  Sharing good practice, off-loading worries and learning more about teaching and learning at Hinde House made it a worthwhile experience and set me up for my second year.

Miss Claire Elliott (Y2 teacher 2007)

During my first year at HH I was very well supported with an extensive induction programme that helped to answer all of those 'burning' questions.  But rather than it being given in one go there was a number of timetabled sessions throughout the year.  This took the pressure off me thinking I had to know everything by the end of week one!

I had an induction buddy who was an experienced member of staff and was a great confidante.  I felt very comfortable speaking to her about anything and never felt silly even when I was probably asking daft questions.

HH is the most professional school I have ever worked in. All the in-service training I have attended here has been of the highest quality.  I have been teaching for 14 years and yet I feel my teaching has developed and moved forward to another level.

All the staff are warm and friendly and I have made some really good friends here.

Miss Laura-Gene Lawrence (NQT 2007-08)

Prior to starting my position at Hinde House Secondary School, I was excited and anxious about what the year ahead of me would be like.  I knew that the role would be challenging but I now realize that this is one of the points that contribute to the job being so rewarding.

If anyone asks me now about my NQT year, I reply with the phrase, “swings and roundabouts”.  It was not easy all of the time but what helped me through when I felt I was facing a difficult challenge was the friendly and supportive staff.  In my second year here, I feel comfortable and more confident in my own abilities.  What seemed like big challenges before are now much easier to overcome.

I would say that working at Hinde House School is very rewarding because of the positive change you help to make to the lives of your pupils.

Mr. Patrick Scotton (Primary NQT 2007 -08)

Being a Newly Qualified Teacher at Hinde House Primary School I was initially very nervous. However, this soon disappeared, as I was approached by friendly and helpful colleagues who ensured that I was settled and happy. I found that staff do go out of their way to introduce you to routines and the working day at the school. The professionalism, friendliness and warmth is still with me as I am ever learning in the changing world of teaching.
A real 'can do' team ethos exists at the Hinde House Primary, with everyone pulling in the same direction towards a collective goal and offering to help in someway. Hinde House is a great place to work and a wonderful choice.

Mr. Mark Clement (NQT 2008-09)

Since securing a post at Hinde House, I have received support in abundance, every step of the way up to the present.  All staff, including both teaching and non-teaching staff, have been only too happy to help.  Friendly faces, little conversations and advice have made the first couple of weeks much smoother than they might have been.

My induction has been thorough but most importantly practical.  The advice I have received from various teaching staff and senior management has been most helpful and fit for purpose.  Members of my department and support staff, particularly from the Learning Centre, have supported me on a daily basis which has been invaluable!  Staff training days have been a pleasant surprise, both useful and practical.

Ultimately, I could not have asked for any more support than the high level I have received since day one.  This has served to ease my transition from a trainee to an NQT and left me looking forward to the challenges ahead this year.

Mr. Samuel McWhirter (NQT 2007-08)

When I first saw how frequently I would have to attend the induction meetings, my heart sank.  However, as the year progressed, the induction meetings quickly became the one point in the week in which I would receive much needed and valued support and input.  Through the more formal seminars which answered many of the questions I didn’t know to ask, and the informal discussions, I was given the tools needed in order to work effectively at Hinde House.

Institutions all have their unspoken systems which to the uninitiated can be daunting and undermining; the induction meetings sought to address these.  I now know who to go to for what, which piece of paper is needed and by when it needs to be completed.  This all means I can now focus more fully on the task of helping students learn and achieve.  Sharing best practice, teaching strategies and learning how to endure the pressure of teaching has all meant I believe I am a better practitioner as a result of the induction programme.