Staff Development Policy

We  recognise  that  it  is  important  for  each  member  of  staff  in  the department to keep abreast of new initiatives, in addition to developing her own  interests in either subject or management. We support the whole school Professional Development Policy.

Staff is encouraged to attend appropriate courses as or when they occur. It is important that these reflect the department’s priorities.

It is possible on some occasions to arrange internal development programs within the school. This has the advantage of reducing costs and may perhaps lead to less loss of contact with teaching groups.

If a member of the department attends a course, they should cascade information to the rest of the team at the next departmental meeting, as well as providing an A4 sheet of key learning points.

Performance Management

Staff requirements are identified during the Performance Management process. Every member of the department meets with her line    manager. This enables her   to discuss general          performance, strengths, concerns and development needs, to review previous targets and to set targets for the forthcoming year. The department supports the whole school PD Policy.

New Members of Staff

New staff are attached to a mentor usually HOD who supports them with their English teaching.

Each new member of the English department is entitled to:

•    opportunities to visit the department before taking up a post;

•    opportunities to observe and teach with other members of the department;

•    opportunities to be observed by the head of department and – if

appropriate – other members of the department;

•    opportunities to be fully involved in collaborative planning and

reviewing of materials, courses and all aspects of the department’s work.