I am in no doubt that the quality of an education system depends on the quality of its workforce. And on that basis, I am extremely proud of the dedicated workforce we have here in Wales.
When talking to practitioners, I am often told of the excellent professional learning (PL) available, but I am also told of the difficulties some have in finding the ‘right’ type of PL for them. I have listened, and acted, on those concerns.
I am pleased today to launch the new National Professional Learning Entitlement.
This brings together a package of professional learning for all practitioners, so that everyone, wherever they may be based, can benefit.
Not only will the Entitlement make it easier for practitioners to access programmes and experiences, but importantly, it sets clear expectations about what all education professionals in Wales must be entitled to. If that entitlement is not currently in place in a particular area, we will work at pace with partners to improve the offer. It will be a ‘live’ document – refined and improved upon as we continue to make progress.
I am clear that our national offer must be consistent and of the highest possible quality. We will therefore shortly introduce a new validation process to ensure all national professional learning is quality assured and recognised.
A new cross-regional website was also launched this week. The creation of this website is significant – it shows that we are breaking down barriers to collaborative working. The site will continue to develop, providing universal access to further opportunities and professional learning resources.
The new validation process and the new cross-regional website are important steps towards a consistent, verified, highly regarded and available offer to all.
The world’s highest-performing education systems have vibrant, engaged practitioners who are committed to continuous learning. The Entitlement we are publishing today is a further step in our efforts to support our practitioners to be lifelong professional learners that enhance their own practice in order to motivate and inspire learners across Wales.
Finally, it’s important to me that I hear directly from as many of you as possible. Every month I host a roundtable with heads and leaders in the education sector. If you haven’t participated, I’d very much like to hear from you. Email dysg@gov.wales