I was initially unsure what the new Early Career Framework would include but now I’ve reached the final term of my first ECT year, I can see how it has supported my development. It feels like a natural continuation of my initial teacher training, as I still have weekly mentor meetings and still set myself targets based on the Teacher’s Standards. It’s good to remind yourself that you’re still developing and there’s still so much support out there, especially when things get tough. Having a local community of ECTs who meet face-to-face and online is so reassuring, and it means you can share useful examples of good practice. I think I can safely say the ECF has made my first year of teaching more successful and enjoyable.