Building Capacity for Curriculum for Excellence

Contexts for Professional Learning

There is increasing recognition that the school isthe key context for professional learning. If this is the case, how can schools provide the culture, contexts, structures and learning relationships that are crucial to successful professional learning.

The Seminar is based on the work of the National CPD Team who are working with local authority CPD Managers and School CPD Co-ordinators to highlight interesting practice and develop materials which will be available within the GLOW Group CPDLead.

In this session, we will discuss:-

• how good leadership and management of CPD in schools can create a positive learning culture
• what a "good" CPD school looks like
• what specifically makes schools rich learning contexts for adults

Sheila Smith is currently a member of the National CPD Team having been seconded from her post as CPD Co-ordinator in West Lothian.

A secondary teacher for many years, Sheila has always had in interest in Adult Learning which she was able to develop firstly in the role of School CPD Co-ordinator and latterly, as local authority CPD Coordinator. Sheila completed an MSc in Lifelong Learning in 2006.

Her professional interests include networks, social capital and the particular cultures, environments and relationships which promote professional learning. She believes wholeheartedly in the power of teacher centred, practice focused learning not only in terms of its positive impact on pupils but also in its ability to sustain and motivate teachers.