Published 10 October 2026 · 2 min read
Most people who move from a trade into a college have a clear picture of the workshop side of the job. The parts that surprise them tend to be everything around it. This guide describes what the first term commonly involves, so you can judge whether it suits you before you apply. Every college organises things differently, so treat this as a general picture rather than a promise.
Induction and shadowing
Colleges usually run an induction covering safeguarding, health and safety, IT systems and the college's own policies. Many new staff also shadow an experienced lecturer for some sessions before taking groups on their own. If you are offered a role, it is reasonable to ask what induction and shadowing the department provides.
Your timetable
A full-time lecturer's week is divided into timetabled teaching hours and time for preparation, marking and meetings. The split varies by college and by contract. Instructor and technician roles often have more workshop time and less classroom delivery. Ask to see a sample timetable for the role you are considering.
Groups and levels
You may teach several groups at different levels, for example an entry-level group, a Level 2 group and apprentices on day release. Each group needs a different pace. People coming from industry often say this is the biggest adjustment: explaining something you do by instinct, step by step, to someone who has never done it.
Paperwork and tracking
Learner progress has to be recorded, assessments must be evidenced, and awarding organisations set rules about how practical work is signed off. Expect to spend real time on this. Departments usually have templates and a curriculum lead who checks your first submissions.
Being observed
Most colleges observe new teaching staff in the first year, both to support them and as part of quality checks. Observations are normally followed by feedback and a development plan. If you are working towards a teaching qualification, your course will include observed practice as well.
Starting a teaching qualification
Depending on the college and the nation you work in, you may be asked to start a teaching qualification during your first year. Some colleges fund it or give time off to study. Requirements differ between England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, so check the expectations for the specific role. See our guide to teaching qualifications for more detail.
What helps
- Keep examples from your own work: photos, faults you fixed, jobs that went wrong. Learners respond to real stories.
- Ask your department for existing schemes of work rather than writing everything from scratch.
- Agree with your line manager early what "good" looks like at the end of your first term.
Is it right for you?
If you are still deciding, a conversation with a specialist recruiter can help you understand the realities for your trade and area before you commit. Registering with Trade2Teach is free and does not oblige you to apply for anything.