Summer break is finally here - a well-deserved time to recharge and explore new ideas for the upcoming academic year. Have you had the time to reflect on your professional development this year? A crucial factor in ensuring that we continually improve our teaching practices is to be on a conscious journey of continuous professional development. A first step towards that is to ensure that teachers are members of the organisations that offer these courses, either for free or at a reasonable cost. This list that I’ve curated is based on my insights from various events, conferences and conversations with educators across the country:
The Chartered College of Teaching empowers the profession by bridging the gap between practice and research. They give teachers the confidence and tools to make the best decisions for their pupils.
Members can access a wealth of resources, including the award-winning journal Impact, over 1,000 journal articles, Chartered Status accreditation, and exclusive events for collaboration. The Early Career Hub, MyCollege, and extensive education research databases help teachers develop their skills and expertise continuously. They celebrate teachers' professionalism and ensure their voices are heard through consultations, surveys, and roundtables. They raise the profession's status to benefit teachers, students, and society. I have come across many teachers this academic year, who have received their Chartered Status and benefitted from promotion or an enhanced role following the accreditation. Maybe you will be next?
Subscribe here: https://chartered.college/join/
STEM Learning UK is a national organisation that inspires and supports science, technology, engineering, and mathematics teachers. They offer a wealth of resources, training, and support to help bring STEM subjects to life in the classroom. Their vibrant community of educators provide a treasure trove of resources to enhance your teaching, making you feel supported and part of a more extensive network. I had the opportunity to meet with about 60 science teachers at their recent Secondary Science conference in York. The workshops were relevant to early career teachers (ECT) and experienced teachers. A great way to meet with like-minded people, share resources, and keep updated with evidence-based pedagogy.
Subscribe here: https://www.stem.org.uk/find-your-community
The Ogden Trust supports schools & teachers who are committed to enhancing physics teaching and learning. This brilliant network of teachers is dedicated to making Physics more accessible to teachers and students alike. A recent survey by the Institute of Physics (IOP) shows that 46% of teachers said their school was understaffed for physics teachers – more than twice the proportion as for biology teachers. If physics is not your subject, I suggest you join this fantastic, supportive organisation! I have met many teachers over the last two terms who have hugely benefitted from their teaching and in supporting teachers in their school to strengthen their physics teaching.
Subscribe here: https://www.ogdentrust.com/newsletter-signup/
The Association for Science Education (ASE) plays a significant role in promoting excellence in the teaching and learning of science in schools and colleges. It supports all those involved in science education, from pre-school to higher education. Members include teachers, technicians, researchers, and others.
This excellent UK-wide network brings together individuals and organisations to share ideas and tackle challenges in science teaching, develop resources and foster high-quality Continuing Professional Development. Their annual Secondary Science conference is a must to attend. One that offers a range of hands-on workshops and talks across various topics in science education. Their journals provide a wealth of information. More importantly, they are wonderful people committed to supporting teachers.
Subscribe here: https://www.ase.org.uk/ase-membership
These networks offer fantastic resources, training, and support that can truly enhance your teaching experience. Take this chance to learn, connect, and grow, making the next school year even more successful for you and your students. Enjoy your summer and happy learning!
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