The TDA has developed a set of materials to help induction tutors assess newly qualified teachers (NQTs) against the core standards, and support NQTs in carrying out their own self assessment. The materials are part of a programme intended to ensure teacher training and induction meets the needs of children with special educational needs and/or disabilities. We would like to pilot these materials with up to 15 local authorities from January 2009 for two school terms.

This pilot comes at a crucial time; with the launch of the Ofsted report 'How Well New Teachers are Prepared to Teach Pupils with Learning Difficulties and/or Disabilities.' The report examines factors that contribute to successful training that helps intending and newly qualified teachers meet the needs of pupils with learning difficulties and/or disabilities. It recognises the challenge of ensuring training is effective, and illustrates how this might be achieved successfully. The report will be available to download this month from the Ofsted website.

Local authorities are invited to express their interest in participating in the pilot by Tuesday 30 September 2008. A briefing meeting for those taking part is scheduled for the morning of 3 November 2008 in London at the Hesperia Hotel.

Please e-mail Richard Barrett to register your interest or request further information.

To read the September 2008 Update, please visit the TDA Extranet. Your password is required.

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