Professional Development

The College offers a wide range of professional development opportunities. These are available, as appropriate, to all staff. 

Senior Management Group 
This is an opportunity for two staff members to join the Senior Management Group for a one year fixed term. As a member of this group, the College will benefit from a wider range of a professional development experiences. 

Leadership Programme for Middle Management 
This is a certified course held at the College in association with AUT. The programme will develop the skills needed to be a ‘people-centred manager’ and to integrate these skills into their own situations. The programme runs over two academic terms and the course fees are met by the College. 

Academic Staff Scholarships 
Up to five scholarships are offered each year to academic staff. These must have specific curriculum objectives with clear benefits to the College. Along with a generous contribution to related costs, the scholarships can be taken with or without paid leave depending on the circumstances. 

Higher Order Thinking Skills Certificate 
This one year programme is aimed at providing teachers with a sound knowledge of a range of thinking strategies to support the teaching and learning process. This formal recognition of higher order thinking skills as an area of expertise is achieved through regular training sessions where thinking strategies will be learnt, practised and applied. 

Horizon Hour 
Horizon Hour reflects the dedication of St Cuthbert’s College to the professionalism of its academic staff and its aim to advance student growth. The Horizon Hour operates every Tuesday, during which time the academic staff will be engaged in a structured professional development programme, comprising College-wide, departmental and personal professional development elements. 

Reggio Emilia Philosophy 
In our Y1-4 classrooms, we aim to reflect the Reggio Emilia approach, which challenges teachers to meet each child’s mind, by triggering and enhancing their innate curiosity. All Y1-4 teachers are trained in the Reggio approach and have opportunities for ongoing professional development through a regular programme that includes discussion groups, seminars and conferences. In our Y5-8 classes the Reggio Emilia approach informs practice and is complemented by a focus on the James Beane Integrative approach, which encourages students to articulate and explore their own deep questions. On-site professional development is available to support teachers in developing the approach. 

Human Resources Lunchtime Bites 
These are elective meetings held once a term to assist line managers understand their HR responsibilities to their staff and develop their confidence in handling HR staffing issues. They may also be useful resource as a refresher to HR management responsibilities.