Expert panel to review teacher training content

An expert panel has met for the first time to review the content of teacher training and recommend ways to align it with the Early Career Framework

The group of experts, led by Professor Sam Twiselton OBE, Director of Sheffield Institute of Education at Sheffield Hallam University, will draft guidance to support teachers in the first few years of their career.
It will make its final recommendations by the end of the summer 2019.

Minister for School Standards Nick Gibb said: “The Early Career Framework is a fundamental shift in the support available to teachers starting out in their careers, ensuring newly qualified teachers continue to be mentored to help them develop the key skills teachers need.

“The advisory group that convened today will play an essential role in helping us to ensure that the training teachers receive is consistent, and of the highest quality, as the full programme is rolled out.”

Prof. Twiselton has vast experience of developing curriculum content for teacher training. She will be supported by six leaders in education and teacher training, encompassing views from across the sector, including leading academics and teacher training providers.

Professor Sam Twiselton OBE said: “Bringing initial teacher training and the Early Career Framework into close alignment provides a unique opportunity to ensure all newly qualified teachers have access to a shared understanding of how best to develop in their careers.”

Launched in the Department’s Recruitment & Retention Strategy, the Early Career Framework guarantees that new teachers will receive a two-year package of training and support at the start of their career, including a reduced timetable to allow teachers to make the most of their training.

Extra investment will also be pledged, through the £42million Teacher Development Premium, to roll-out the Early Career Framework early in the North East, Bradford, Doncaster and Greater Manchester.