Wales launches National Approach to Professional Learning for teachers

The Welsh Government has launched the National Approach to Professional Learning (NAPL) programme to help teachers deliver Wales’ new curriculum.

The new national focus for professional learning can be delivered flexibly to not disrupt the school day 

It will give schools the time and resources they need to plan ahead for the new curriculum and ensure that changes are made in a way that will prioritise the wellbeing of teachers and minimise disruption to pupils’ learning. 

The funding will also help ensure that there is cover for staff to be released for professional learning

The programme will see £9 million in this financial year, increasing to £15 million next financial year. It is the single biggest investment in support for teachers in Wales since devolution.

Under the NAPL, Professional Learning will be an entitlement for all practitioners in schools, not just teachers.

Schools will also be encouraged to create, share and exploit learning opportunities with other schools and organisations as they work together in clusters.

One of the most striking features of the NAPL will be an entirely new approach to how teachers learn. A much more accessible blend of learning will be available through Wales’ regions and universities. This will encompass learning outside the classroom, online learning, classroom learning and coaching.

This will ensure that teachers have much greater flexibility about how and when they learn.