In terms of teacher recruitment our responsibility at BISP is relatively straightforward – invite the best possible people to come and work with us, put them in front of students, and let the magic begin. Our Professional Learning Programme allows these people to regularly share their wizardry.
Each year schools schedule In-Service Training days (INSET) which allow the teaching and coaching community to focus on professional learning. At BISP our emphasis is on sharing contemporary, and evidence-informed, practice to inspire learning and inform aspects of our strategic plan – especially relating to teaching and learning and student wellbeing.
We also recognise that INSET days and collective training opportunities allow our staff to come together and bond. This is especially important given the recent requirement to socially distance! Our latest INSET day was kick-started by staff throwing themselves (sometimes awkwardly) into wellbeing activities such as cardio drumming; printmaking workshop; French cooking; mindful painting; and various high energy pursuits.
Throughout the day our teachers focussed on professional themes and collaborated with each other in a multitude of ways. Twenty-four workshops included topics such as:
- Peer Coaching using the GROW model
- Accessibility and Inclusion
- Google Educator Training
- Staff Wellbeing Sessions
- Science transition – bridging the gap between Key Stage 2 and 3
- Primary School robotics
- Global understanding
- Stretch and challenge in Maths
Our Academy Coaches had another opportunity to share their practice by facilitating some rigorous practical sessions, in order to creatively compare and contrast different methods of instruction.
Professional Learning opportunities such as this allow staff to dive deeper into the pedagogical initiatives and interests that benefit our students. INSET days, and our much wider Professional Learning Programme, also provide capacity for staff to be inspired, develop their curiosity, and engage in long lasting professional conversations – similar rewards that students experience at BISP!
The next BISP staff INSET day is planned for 6th June 2022.