Northamptonshire has a school-focused approach to professional development to supplement an outstanding range of quality courses provided by our Inspection and Advisory Service (NIAS).
Every teacher is able to develop their own plan of professional development, and through accredited course progress through the levels of recognised qualifications from certificates, diplomas to a masters degree. This starts with the County Induction Programme - for all teaching staff new to the county, where key county council education personnel and other new teachers are introduced and networks established.
NIAS’ Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Programme reflects local and national priorities, provides development opportunities across the whole curriculum and that reflect the needs of all phases and types of schools - in leadership, management, strategic planning, raising standards as well as specific skills training, eg ICT and Health & Safety.
There are also opportunities focusing on the professional development needs of individual teachers who are at different stages of their careers, eg newly qualified teachers; subject leaders; aspiring deputies.
The ‘Centre for Excellence in Learning’ at Britannia House in Northampton and the Firdale Professional Development Centre at Corby promote and support the professional development of teachers in the whole county.
In addition, Northamptonshire County Council works in partnership with the University of Northampton, University of Leicester and DeMontfort University to provide other CPD opportunities.
Northamptonshire e-Learning portal (NeLP) also provides and promotes access for teachers and students to e-learning opportunities.
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