AROUND 60 newly qualified teachers took up their posts in Halton schools at the start of the new term.

Information, advice and support aimed at easing the new recruits into life in the borough's primary and secondary schools, as well as the Sixth Form College, is the focus of a welcome programme organised by Halton Council.

An introductory session has already taken place at Ditton Primary School, Widnes, where they were welcomed into the authority by Graham Talbot, the council's Executive Director of Education and Social Inclusion.

The new teachers were also able to meet other members of the authority's Advisory Team who will be working closely with them over the next 12 months.

They also heard from three teachers who have just successfully completed their 12-month induction period in Halton schools.

Enjoyable

One of them, Sarah Craven, told her new colleagues: "It was hard, but very rewarding and most enjoyable. I'm continuing to teach at St Chad's and I love it."

The new statutory induction requirements introduced by the Government for all new teachers, places some stiff demands on them and they must be completed satisfactory if those teachers are to continue in the profession.

Cllr Pat Tyrell, executive board member for education and lifelong learning, said: "It's very encouraging when teachers who started their careers in our schools last year speak so highly of their experiences and the support they received from the council.

"We have listened to feedback from last year's newly qualified teachers in preparing an induction programme for this year.

"I hope those we are welcoming into our school this term enjoy working with the council to ensure our children receive the best possible education and I wish them all well in their careers."