“Who dares to teach must never cease to learn” John Cotton Dana

The Eastern Fleurieu School has a commitment to staff training and development. Our vision statement talks about “life-long learners” and we believe that this is not only important for students but also for teachers.

Teachers are encouraged to be involved in professional development activities both in and outside of the school. In-school training and development focuses on the school’s priorities and includes the two school closure days, extended staff meetings and training components of regular meetings.

The establishment of the Learning and Development Strategy (LeaDS) supported by an early dismissal on Wednesday is a reflection of the schools commitment to quality training and development of staff. The Learning and Development Strategy focuses on an extended 2 hour inquiry based approach too school improvement. It continues to be an important aspect of our schools improvement strategies.

Outstanding speakers from around Australia as well as overseas have been engaged to present workshops to staff at the school. School personnel are also encouraged to lead workshops with groups or the whole staff. Staff members have been invited to present training and development around the state, interstate and internationally.

It is believed that professional dialogue and critical reflections on practice are important components of staff training and development. Staff are encouraged to engage in professional reading and relevant readings are given to staff.

SSOs are provided with up-to-date training and development in topics related to their work and meet regularly to keep abreast of changes.

Teachers and SSOs are encouraged to participate in workshops outside of the school and/or to visit other schools with outstanding practice.

There is an expectation that all staff will engage in professional development activities and will be open to new learning.