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A new scheme pairing specialist teachers with colleagues in other schools has been launched by Wellington College.
The Education Specialist Leaders scheme, which started this term, offers the services of experienced state and independent school teachers who will go into schools that ask for them and deliver three days of mentoring and sharing good practice in teaching.
The scheme is being funded by the Wellington College Learning Alliance.
Paul Jennings, head of educational developments and partnerships at Wellington College, said: “Part of our mission is to help teachers share their experience and pass on the tips and strategies they have learned over the years.
“We know it is hard for schools to release their much-valued teachers so the Wellington College Learning Alliance is funding the cost of a cover teacher to take over those lessons while the ESL goes to visit another school.
“The scheme works in both directions as it is good for experienced teachers to share their knowledge and meet staff in other schools as part of their own continuing professional development.
“We are starting with six teachers in Maths and Science across both primary and secondary, who will go into secondary schools that ask for them and we will add more next term including SEND specialists, Computer Science and English.”
He added: “ESLs are experienced teaching staff who have a passion for working with others to improve the quality of teaching and learning.
“They are experts of curriculum, pedagogy, and/or assessment who have a minimum of two years leadership experience.”
Kiran Sharma, assistant headteacher at St. Crispin’s School, added: “Learning and teaching is an evolving area which is being driven by educational research.
“Becoming an Education Specialist Leader will enable me to share good practice working with colleagues to shape intent and implementation of the curriculum to improve outcomes for students.
“In addition, I believe it will be an opportunity to share good practice and be research informed in driving forward outcomes for students.”
Schools that would like to take up the offer of three visits from an ESL should get in touch with the learning alliance at wcta@wellingtoncollege.org.uk.
