Continuous Professional Development

CPD means more than INSET days or short-term solutions. It’s an essential ongoing strategy that supports and improves learner outcomes.

Short code	Description
Culture	An open-door culture where staff can observe and share feedback creates a climate of continuous learning.
CPD Focus	In schools with highly effective professional development, CPD is targeted at specific pupils, topics and practices. Support staff also have access to effective CPD.
Needs Analysis and Evaluation	Schools which perform well in this area prioritise pupil learning needs when they identify CPD processes and opportunities.
Internal Support and Challenge	Collaborative learning for teaching and support staff is crucial to building schools where teams continually improve their knowledge and practice.
Use of Expert Knowledge	Engaging with good-quality external expertise allows staff to learn about the latest research and gain support as they translate it into practice.
Processes and Structures of CPD	Time needs to be carefully allocated to support effective CPD, with change managed in a way that optimises buy-in from staff.
Research, Innovation and Evidence	Teachers should be able to identify the evidence behind any CPD programme they are a part of and have access to a range of research to inform their practice. All school staff should also be aware of the importance of being selective, critical consumers of new ideas or interventions.