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Standard for teachers’ professional development

Implementation guidance for school leaders, teachers, and organisations that offer professional development for teachers

July 2016

Contents

Introduction 3

Using this guidance 4

Definitions 4

What does ‘professional development’ mean? 5

Programmes versus activities 5

The standard 6

Part 1 – Professional development should have a clear focus on improving and evaluating pupil outcomes 7

Part 2 – Professional development should be underpinned by robust evidence and expertise 8

Part 3 – Professional development should include collaboration and expert challenge 9

Part 4 – Professional development programmes should be sustained over time 10

Part 5 – Professional development must be prioritised by school leadership 11

Bibliography 12