We strongly recommend that you find out as much as you can about the programme before filling in the application form. You must have your eligible role confirmed for the 2010-2011 academic year before you apply, and we also recommend that you discuss your plans with your school – asking for the head’s support if you are accepted onto the programme.If you are interested in applying for the Teaching Leaders programme, here are a few key next steps:
1. It might be a good idea to speak to your line manager and/or Headteacher to let them know you are applying to the programme (we will be asking for your Headteacher’s support during the selection process). If you are moving to a new school, then feel free to contact us to discuss how you might go about doing this, and how we can help
2. Come to a taster session where you can gain a fuller understanding of the programme from the team and current participants as well as experiencing a sample of the training
3. Complete an application form online. We ask you for personal and professional details, and also ask you to complete three short essay questions (no more than 300 words each). The selection process is explained in more detail below
Application deadlines
This year we expect demand for places on the programme to be high, and therefore we encourage interested applicants to apply as early as possible. There is an earlybird deadline of 9th April 2010, and we advise all candidates to submit an application by this date in order to maximise their chances of success.
Selection
We have designed our selection process to be a developmental experience for you. It will enable you to learn more about where your strengths lie and where you need to focus your efforts, and help you to better appreciate your own aspirations as a leader.
We will offer individual feedback after stages 1 and 3 of the process, regardless of whether you are successful at these stages.
Stage 1: Application Form.
Consists of three essay-style questions. At this stage we want to ascertain your fit with the programme, evidence of your personal impact in schools to date, and a sense of how you work as a team member. We will respond to your application within ten working days.
Stage 2: Headteacher support.
Before we proceed to the Assessment Centre we ask for support for your participation on the programme from your Headteacher. Teaching Leaders is a demanding development programme and you will need the backing of your school to make the most of the opportunities it offers. In addition to professional support we also require at this stage a commitment from your Headteacher to support you financially while on the programme to the value of £2000 per year. Teaching Leaders is happy to provide assistance in negotiating such support for applicants joining a new school. For more information contact us.
Stage 3: Assessment Centre
This is a half-day set of exercises, some of which will be completed as a group with other candidates, and others of which will be individual activities. These will include a personal interview, a set of role plays and a group exercise.
