Cowbridge School

Leaders have established a collaborative culture of professional learning that supports staff at all levels. This element of the school’s work has several aspects.Leaders provide opportunities for all teachers to take part in research projects to enhance their classroom practice. This encourages professional dialogue and teamwork within and across departments. In addition, leaders respond proactively to meet individual professional learning needs. For example, aspiring leaders have access to specific programmes to support their development. The school’s close links with an initial teacher education provider has provided opportunities for teachers to complete relevant postgraduate qualifications to develop aspects of teaching, learning and leadership. Senior leaders place emphasis on their own continued professional development, for example when completing professional qualifications that assist them to support in coaching colleagues. Governors are invited to attend whole-school training sessions to improve their understanding of the school and national priorities. The school’s comprehensive professional learning offer is having a positive impact on teaching and pupils’ standards.