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Teaching and Learning

Monday Team Time

Deputy Head Academic, Mr Matt Leeds, commenced Monday Morning Team Time with a presentation on the Shore Teaching Expertise Programme (STEP) to Senior School teachers. Mr Leeds’ presentation focused on the research work completed by the Professional Learning Team, who have been exploring approaches to professional learning that works not just in theory, but in practice. Their findings show that professional learning is effective when it is school-based, job-embedded, sustained over time and supported by the School. The Shore Teaching Expertise Programme (STEP) is for all staff from the ELC to the Senior School, focusing on the deepening of knowledge, the expansion of instructional range, and the enhancement of expertise. Thanks to Ms Sandy Robertson (Music), Mr Huw Blood (PDHPE), Mr Tom Kirby (Business Studies and Economics) and Mr George Davis (History) who presented their experience trialling a teaching sprint focus (e.g., retrieval practice, scaffolding writing). Their presentations outlined:

  • The research that directed their focus for improving practice (article, podcast, book, lecture etc.)
  • How they moved beyond acquiring knowledge through research into periods of trialing, adapting, and refining in the classroom. What adjustments they made considering what was happening in the classroom
  • What their reflections and feedback (student, peer and other) revealed about the effectiveness of their focus area for improving practice
  • What possible next steps they would take for further development of their teaching expertise.

On this continued journey of professional growth, we are very fortunate to have formed an academic partnership with the University of New South Wales (UNSW). Our academic partners, Dr Simon Breakspear and Associate Professor Tony Loughland continue to support our development of the Shore Teaching Expertise Programme (STEP). This is an exciting initiative where we support teachers in improving their craft through effective deliberate practice.

Mr J Tzantzaris
Head of Teaching and Learning

Deputy Head Academic, Mr Matt Leeds – presenting the Shore Teaching Expertise Programme (STEP)