INSET, also known as “in-service training”, can feel like your ‘first day of school’. This is our guide to what happens on INSET day.
Timetable of the day
INSET days vary in content depending on the time of year, phase and priorities of the school. However, most INSETs at the beginning of the year will involve at least one day of safeguarding training, sharing school priorities/ vision, CPD, time to prepare classrooms and meeting colleagues.
What should I bring with me?
Your school should have communicated if there is anything specific that they want you to bring. Make sure to bring a notebook, diary to note important dates and pen. If you have gathered some items to decorate your classroom, INSET can be a good time to bring them in to get set up in your new room.
What should I wear?
Have a look at any dress-code policies on the school website and think about what you saw other people wearing if you attended an in-person interview. Expectations for dress are normally more relaxed on INSET than normal work days, however, it is generally better to be over than underdressed. It is unlikely that anyone will be wearing suits and ties, but also generally not sports clothes either.
Expect to be overwhelmed
You will be receiving a LOT of information. No one expects you to remember it all, especially if you’re an ECT or new to the school. Try to note down key information but make sure to utilise the experience of those around you, and remember that policies should be clearly accessible on the school website if you need a refresher. Subject leaders are there to answer your questions and were all new starters at one point!
Make time to chat and EAT
Prioritise time for forming connections with colleagues. Yes, it may be tempting to spend your lunch break putting up that beautifully laminated display, but don’t neglect getting to know people who will be able to support you and help you put up displays terms or years from now! One of the best ways to do this is eating lunch in the staff room and chatting to anyone wandering around. INSET days are busy and there are lots of moving parts and people, so equally, don’t get disheartened if you feel that someone seems occupied or not up for a chat. Finally, make sure you eat something! Fainting during safeguarding training is not the first impression you want to be making!
Signed,
Ticked Off Teacher 