The Evolution of Pre-school and Elementary School Teachers’ Career Trajectories – Career Beginnings and Ambitions

Abstract

The professionalization of nursery school teachers is currently a much-discussed topic within the Czech Republic. In this study, the authors present interim results of their research into the career trajectories of nursery school teachers, and compare these to the trajectories of junior level elementary school teachers. The research sample comprised thirteen nursery school teachers (3 of whom are currently Czech School Inspectorate inspectors), and also ten junior level elementary school teachers. This sample included five nursery school principals and five elementary school principals. In the qualitative design of the research, two research methods were used, specifically the writing of a themed text, and interviews. By analysing and processing the data obtained, categories were produced which capture different evolutionary phases in the career trajectory of nursery school teachers, elementary school teachers and inspectors.