Aberdeenshire Council welcomes newly qualified teachers

Newly qualified teachers are set to take up their roles in schools across Aberdeenshire this week.

More than 100 probationer teachers were welcomed at a special induction event at Meldrum Academy on Friday (August 18).

All teachers undertake a probationary period before they gain full registration. 

Most probationer teachers undertake this through the Teacher Induction Scheme and are placed with local authorities for a fixed term of one year. 

Once their probationary period is complete, teachers can then apply for posts.

Aberdeenshire Council’s Education and Children’s Services Committee chair Cllr David Keating said: “Teaching is a demanding yet hugely rewarding and exciting career and it is great to see so many new teachers take their first steps with us.

“I hope those entering the profession for their probation period thoroughly enjoy their first year, shaping the lives of children and young people across Aberdeenshire and preparing them for the future.”

This year, 103 probationers are taking up positions in schools across Aberdeenshire – 91 in primary schools and 12 in secondary.

Across Aberdeenshire there are 17 secondary schools, four special schools and 147 primary schools. 

There are more than 36,000 pupils and 2,800 full-time equivalent teachers across the school estate.

Committee vice chair Cllr Anne Simpson added: “The probationers embarking on a teaching career will receive invaluable support and advice from our team.

“For those who have relocated to Aberdeenshire from other areas of Scotland, we welcome them and hope to make them feel at home in their new surroundings.”