WKLF AST Project

1. WKLF AST Project Debbie Coslett and Ian Ward The Hayesbrook School

2. The background - 2003 Training School status applied for by 6 schools: The Hayesbrook School Mascalls Weald of Kent Girls� Grammar School Hugh Christie Technology College Cranbrook School Angley School �The Training School will act as a hub for the wider West Kent Learning Federation, providing an unparalleled opportunity for further collaboration and the development of expertise across a unique range of schools.�

3. Key focus areas ITT CPD Collaboration 14-19 Workforce Reform Training School status achieved from September 2004

4. Key issues for debate Cross phase working Use of locality based ASTs and Lead Teachers

5. The proposal �It is acknowledged that both Advanced Skills Teachers and Leading Teachers are a high quality resource for schools in Kent. The following proposal is based upon the idea that the WKLFTP Training School could play a complementary role in the deployment of the team of ASTs and LTs across West Kent, thus focusing the impact of their work in schools.�

6. The rationale �We see this as an extension of the partnership with KCC which is integral to our work as a Training School and we welcome the opportunity to work collaboratively in developing this strategy.�

7. Aims WKLF ASTs and LTs are locally managed by a suitably experienced colleague from the training school Training needs in schools are audited, prioritised and shared with the local group Outreach work is effectively planned and targeted in schools both within West Kent and beyond ASTs/LTs are encouraged to set up local learning networks for subject teachers

8. But� �The training school plan has no discrete budget for developing this work, but would aim to tap into KCC resources for the work it was undertaking in supporting the County strategy.�

9. Coordinating the locality based AST pilot Pre deployment Launch letters AST Coordinator initially met with Head teachers, SLT members or CPD coordinators from within the WKLF schools AST Coordinator met with school based ASTs to further explain the pilot, gather information on their support experience and to discuss any CPD need from within the AST group Commissioning plans discussed with Claire Powis to avoid duplicating support

10. Coordinating the locality based AST pilot During deployment Reminders to HTs, SLT and CPD coordinators about the 6 days available to WKLF schools Matching requests from schools with WKLF AST capacity. Where the need couldn�t be met support from ASK could be requested Encourage ASTs to highlight on their ASK diary�s where support was initiated by the locality based pilot Updates were given to the WKLF executive committee Newsletter

11. Coordinating the locality based AST pilot During deployment continued�. WKLF AST termly meeting to share good practice and to assess any CPD needs Twilight CPD sessions (ASTs and colleagues from WKLF schools) Lesson Observation techniques Coaching Independent learning Behaviour Management Meet with Claire Powis to discuss pilot progress, any specific school requests and any changes to AST staffing

12. Coordinating the locality based AST pilot Post deployment Changes to AST staffing (retention and turnover) Meeting with performance manager (DJC) to discuss specific WKLF target Evaluation of AST impact