In preparation for Practical Session 1, please complete the following pre-readings which will form the basis for group discussions on the day.

1. Please read the Education Endowment Foundation (2021). Effective Professional Development – Guidance Report and answer the following questions:

• When considering professional development for a school, what does the report suggest leaders should focus on – forms or mechanisms?
• What are the four groups that the report uses to cluster the mechanisms?
• For each of these four groups, list an example of how you use one or more of the mechanisms for professional development in your school.
• For each of these four groups, identify an area where you have a question or where you would like to improve.

2. Please read at least one of the following case studies.