Last week, the Minister of State for Schools and Learners, Jim Knight MP, announced proposals that could see teachers qualifying after six months of training.

Cabinet Office Minister Liam Byrne explained the policy: "By cutting the initial teacher training course to six months for the most able candidates, we will make teaching a more attractive choice for experienced people who want to get into the classroom quickly but need high quality initial teacher training."

The proposals drew some disparaging comments from the teaching unions, with the NUT's acting General Secretary, Christine Blower, writing in The Guardian: "Training graduates to become teachers in six months is an ill-thought out scheme that consigns Gordon Brown's vision of a world class education system to the scrap-heap."

ATL General Secretary Mary Boosted said: "Once again the DCSF has been inconsistent with their policy-making, it seems to be a 'hit and miss' approach."

But Shadow schools secretary Michael Gove said the government could go further, asking for "greater flexibility in teacher training, including a new graduate scheme based on going straight into the classroom."

There are currently many routes into teaching: Initial Teacher Training, under- and postgraduate entry, employment-based entry and the prospect of a Master's becoming an eventual prerequisite for all teachers. If you are a trainee or NQT, or would like to help someone you know at the beginning of their career, why not look at our online Starting Out Guide, which offers expert, comprehensive advice, tailored specifically to help address the unique challenges of new teachers.

Whatever stage you are in at teaching, the constant pace of change within schools –whether its new pupils, new colleagues or new regulations – means that training should always play an important part in your professional life. Make sure you have regular conversations with your line manager about training and ensuring that your employer is taking your develop needs seriously – for the benefit of your own advancement and that of the school itself.

In addition, take a look at the following factsheets:

• Routes into teaching
• Responding positively to change
• Practical guide to finding the right job