Is CPD effective?

“We are used to differentiation for pupils so why shouldn’t we expect it when training staff also?”

I’m lucky enough to meet a whole cross section of teachers and leaders from both State and Independent schools in my role as Director of JMC. Leaders are constantly asking me “How can I introduce X in my school?” or “What kind of training will be most effective?” The answer is it depends on your school and what’s right for your staff and pupils. Too many companies offer off the shelf INSET which is not adapted to the individual needs of the school. We are used to differentiation for pupils so why shouldn’t we expect it when training staff also? I firmly believe that the one size fits all approach to CPD is totally outdated.

The best school based CPD draws on the expertise of staff during its delivery and empowers them to perform at a higher level by making very small changes to their existing practice. I call these “tweaks” – no one wants to hear they need to start again from scratch! High quality INSET also requires action, delegates need to be doing something – actively learning. They need to be provided with strategies and resources that they can use in the classroom tomorrow not theories that they have to work out for themselves how to apply. Finally, there must be follow up, either a subsequent visit by the consultant and/or teachers working together to try out the new teaching ideas, peer observe and critique.

Take a moment to look through the various training options we can provide for your school on this website. This will give you a starting point to start planning how best to support your staff. Then arrange an appointment for us to discuss your ideas by phone -it's as simple as that! 

John Medlicott
Director JMC