Teaching Leaders
Developing outstanding middle-level leadership in challenging schools
72% of pupils in departments led by Teaching Leaders in 2011 achieved five good GCSEs, up from 58% two years before the teachers joined the programme (Preliminary data at 31 August 2011)
Middle leader teachers such as Heads of Department and Heads of Year are vital to improving the school achievements and life chances of disadvantaged children. Teaching Leaders develops middle leaders who have key roles to play if all pupils in challenging schools are to fulfil their potential.
The two-year development programme is restricted to teachers who already work in challenging schools so that we make the maximum difference for disadvantaged children. Applicants commit to stay at their schools for at least two years and give up their own time for training.
The initiative was set up in 2008, with the National College for School Leadership and Teach First. We now also offer Teaching Leaders on Demand which provides customised leadership courses for groups of teachers within one school.
In July 2011, the Department for Education confirmed additional funding for Teaching Leaders of £8.9 million for further expansion.