Challenges novice teachers face early years of teaching in basic schools at Kintampo south district of the Bono East Region

Abstract

The study was conducted to investigate challenges novice teachers face in basic schools at Kintampo South District of the Bono East Region. The objectives of the study were to find out the kind of support services given to novice teachers, identify challenges confronting novice teachers in the early years of teaching in basic schools, and to adopt measures to manage the challenges novice teachers face in basic schools at Kintampo South District. A descriptive survey design using the quantitative research approach was adopted for the study. The population of the study comprised all newly recruited teachers in Basic schools at Kintampo South District. Purposive sampling technique was also used to select basic schools newly recruited teachers. The researcher used questionnaire to gather data for the study. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics such as frequencies and percentages to answer all the research questions. The pilot test yielded Cronbach alpha of 0.79. The study found that novice teachers were supported with mentorship programmes and adequate teaching and learning materials. Challenges confronting novice teachers were excessive work load and lack of spare time. Measures that could be adopted to manage the challenges were organizing of regular effective in-service and training programmes and opportunity for professional development programs. It is recommended that the District Director should strengthen and sustain the support given to novice teachers in the discharge of their duties to boost their morale to perform. The district director should organize regular induction programmes for novice teachers to enable them manage the challenges.