Induction needs of a group of teachers at different career stages in a school in the Republic of Ireland: Challenges and expectations

This study examines the induction needs of a group of teachers at different career stages working in a socially disadvantaged secondary school in the Republic of Ireland. 44 teachers participated in the study, 11 of whom were student teachers, 11 of whom were newly qualified teachers and 22 of whom were experienced teachers returning to the school after an extended career break (4) or new to the school having previously worked in a different school (18). Through the use of both quantitative and qualitative techniques, including 44 questionnaires and nine semi-structured interviews, this study examines how a school-based induction programme can best accommodate the needs of a diverse group of teachers at different career stages.

Research highlights
► This case study carried out in a secondary school in the Republic of Ireland found that the induction needs of both newly qualified teachers and returning teachers were broadly similar.
► All participants indicated the need for support in the following areas: handling discipline problems; working with colleagues; negotiating a new school culture; and dealing with management.