46 newly-qualified teachers (NQTs) are heading back to the classroom in primary and secondary schools across Inverclyde. Pictured with the NQTs are Councillor Francesca Brennan, vice-convener of education, far left, next to education officer Alison McLellan, and Ruth Binks, director of education, far right.

It’s back to school for nearly 50 new teachers who are preparing for classrooms across Inverclyde later this week.

Inverclyde Council has welcomed 46 newly-qualified teachers (NQTs) for the 2023/24 term, which begins on Friday 18 August 2023.

Of the 46 new starts, there will be 28 working in primary and 18 in secondary.

They were given a warm welcome during an induction at Inverclyde Academy on Tuesday 15 August 2023.

Among those offering words of encouragement was Councillor Francesca Brennan, Inverclyde Council’s vice-convener of education, who is also a teacher outwith the area and did her probationary year locally prior to becoming an elected member.

Cllr Brennan said: “This brings back so many memories for me when I was in this position just starting out with my teaching career.

“It’s a big moment and there will be nerves and excitement about getting started on Friday.

“But they have all worked so hard to get to this stage and they deserve it.

“Now it’s time for them to enjoy getting stuck into the job and inspire our young people to fulfil their potential and take their place in the world of work.

“We have the most incredible teaching facilities thanks to the council’s unprecedented £¼ billion investment in our school buildings providing not only first-class learning environments for pupils but an excellent platform for our education staff and I wish the class of 2023 the very best of luck as they set off on their teaching careers.”

Having recently qualified, the NQTs will now begin a year-long probation at schools across Inverclyde.

Staff will head to the classroom today, Wednesday 16 August 2023, for two in-service days before pupils start the new term on Friday.

To see what jobs are available within the council, including in education, and the health and social care partnership (HSCP), visit www.myjobscotland.gov.uk/councils/inverclyde-council/jobs and look out for #InverclydeWorks on social media