TeachingTimes

In this module we are bringing to life the threads that weave the curriculum together so that in every subject the different strands bind together to create a tapestry of deep learning for every pupil or student. We look at the vocabulary of the curriculum and the different elements that all need to be woven together to create depth of knowledge and understanding that develops over time. We provide a range of resources and tools for the subject leader to use to ensure there is a shared understanding of how to implement and manage subject specific pedagogy and learning and design a continuum that will create sequential pathways for all learners whatever their starting point. This includes the need to focus on literacy, numeracy and the wider thinking skills in all subjects, how memory plays an important part in learning and finally we look at classroom management and pedagogy and the strategies that ensure learning is active, participative and challenging. We look closely at how the planning and implementation of a powerful curriculum offer includes embracing all those pupils with (SEND).

One of the most important roles for a curriculum or subject leader is to manage his or her team or teams. It is the ability to motivate, organise and build successful teams that will lead to powerful learning and the achievement of clearly defined goals for high quality outcomes for individuals, the team and the whole school. We look in some detail at how subject leaders can harness the energy within their teams, focus on the qualities needed to create successful teams and the communication that is needed to build towards a common purpose. We look at the roles that create the ideal team, the essential protocols and processes that deliver success and the need to build trust into the process. We also look at how to manage conflict, both healthy and unhealthy and how to minimise discontent and dissatisfaction. We also look at the essential synergy between the subject leader, the teacher and the Learning Support Assistant or Teaching Assistant in their collective role in supporting pupils with SEND.

In this final module we bring together some resources and research that delves into the quality of education and what the curriculum and the subject leader needs to focus on to ensure their subject teams and those that form wider cross curricular groups are working together to create a cohesive curriculum that delivers excellence and continuous improvement for all learners including pupils with SEND. We look specifically at classroom practice, pedagogy for learning and what to look for in relation to what pupils are producing and learning. We focus on the subject specific research from Ofsted and other important commentators to create the platform for the professional dialogue that will lead to cohesion and a shared commitment to the highest quality of education across the learning spectrum. Finally we have a suite of planning tools so that subject leaders can reflect on their learning and define their next steps that will lead them towards achieving their own goals and vision for outstanding curriculum and teaching and learning.