Properly trained and developed staff are key to achieving school improvement targets. When you have evaluated the needs of the school, you should reflect on how to meet those needs through continuing professional development opportunities (CPD) for teams and groups of staff.
It makes sense to offer the same CPD opportunities to groups and teams of staff with similar needs. This helps encourage collaborative, peer-supported learning and makes efficient use of time and money.
Examples of groups or teams include:
- administrative staff
- catering staff
- premises staff
- teachers with similar levels of experience
- teaching assistants
- subject specialists
- phase or subject teams
- middle leaders
- aspiring leaders
- governors
Individuals within these groups will have skills and expertise that can support colleagues’ development. However it’s important to remember their own CPD should address their individual needs.
CPD – Secondary – Sharing Skills
Millais School offers a practical example of how to make use of in-house expertise and promote a collaborative CPD culture. Support staff share essential skills and support the development of their teaching colleagues.
