Postgraduate professional development (PPD) is one approach to sustained and systematic continuing professional development (CPD) for qualified teachers. It refers to study which is at masters level (Level 5) or above.
Teachers who have undertaken PPD courses consistently report a positive impact on their knowledge and classroom skills, and on pupil and classroom performance, as a result of the programme. Teachers take part in PPD for many reasons:
- To develop and progress in their careers
- To research something in which they are interested and that could improve their practice
- To help them to perform better in their roles
Important changes to funding:
The Government has confirmed that there will be no further dedicated central funding for the PPD scheme, through which approved providers have been allocated funds by the TDA since 2005. However, central funding will be available to subsidise programmes for teachers who are continuing on a funded PPD programme through the scheme in the academic years (AYs) 2011/12 and 2012/13. These continuers must meet, and continue to meet, the eligibility criteria.
This change to funding relates only to the TDA’s funding of new, future, and ineligible continuing PPD candidates. New, non-TDA-funded, PPD programmes are still open to eligible candidates. You can contact universities/providers in your region to find out more about any PPD courses they offer. Your CPD leader may also be able to advise on potential sources of support within your school for funding a PPD course.