A collegiate approach to professional learning  

We are proudly evidence-informed in relation to our teaching practice. Recent themes of our Senior School CPL programme have considered the role of cognitive science and memory, extrinsic and intrinsic motivation, and approaches to advancing academic literacy amongst our academic student body.  

We rely on knowledgeable experts within and without the school community to help us develop as practitioners, with CPL delivered by our Director of Teaching & Learning, Pastoral Leads and SENDCo as appropriate.  We also work with experts from across the sector and facilitate membership to the Chartered College of Teaching, subscriptions to TES, and enrolment in external CPL as appropriate.  

A culture of teaching and learning development relies on curiosity and collaboration. We therefore encourage staff to share good practice by opening the doors of their classroom to those in other departments. This is facilitated via our Mutual Observation Fortnight, which runs several times each year. Staff arrange to see, share and celebrate the excellent practice they see in all academic departments across the Senior School.  

Parents and students rightly expect consistently excellent teaching at the College and so INSET days and mid-term CPL is central to our school calendar. Teachers receive regular feedback on their practice, via supportive learning walks, formative lesson observations and conversations about student work.  

Optional CPL pathways 

Our optional CPL events are also well attended. We encourage staff to develop and share an interest in evidence-informed pedagogy our well-attended T&L book group to supports this. Our most recent reads have included Mccrea Motivated Teaching, Didau The Secret of Literacy and Roberts The Boy Question.  Recent Learn at Lunch events have included “speed dating” to share ideas on using AI to reduce workload, strategies to improve oracy in paired discussions, and how to encourage a community of readers. 

We are reflective practitioners and love sharing our practice.  Our staff contribute to a termly teaching & learning bulletin.

Read our CPL Bulletins here

Support for new staff 

We understand that starting at a new school can feel daunting, regardless of your prior experience. Adjusting to new routines, traditions, and expectations while getting to know a new community can be overwhelming. That’s why we’ve designed a robust and supportive induction programme to ensure new staff feel welcomed, informed, and confident as they settle into life at St Dunstan’s. 

The CPL opportunities at St. Dunstan’s have been instrumental in my development. In addition to receiving tailored training and guidance to help us navigate these crucial early years, we’ve also been encouraged to share our best practices. - Molly Pridmore

Rather than overwhelming new colleagues with a flurry of information in their first few days, our rolling induction programme spans the entire first term. Informal sessions are thoughtfully timed to provide support as and when it is most relevant. From understanding key routines to learning more about our school culture and vision, the programme helps new staff gradually adapt to their new environment. Whether you are navigating new systems or preparing for key school events, the induction ensures you’re equipped every step of the way. 

Building connections across the school is essential for both professional growth and personal wellbeing. To support this, all new members of teaching staff are paired with a buddy—an experienced colleague in a similar role but from a different department. This system helps widen professional and social networks, offering practical advice, camaraderie, and the chance to share experiences. Buddies act as informal guides, providing insights into day-to-day life at St Dunstan’s and ensuring no one feels alone in their journey. 

The professional development opportunities at St Dunstan’s have been invaluable. The Teacher Development Programme has equipped me with strategies to enhance my practice. The staff symposium last year was particularly inspiring, as it allowed me to learn from experts in education and engage in thought-provoking discussions with peers. These opportunities have helped me reflect on my teaching and continue to grow professionally. - Zen Ng

 

Investing in Leadership Development at St Dunstan’s 

At St Dunstan's Senior School, we believe that great schools are built by investing in great people. That’s why we’re proud to offer our bespoke leadership development programme designed to nurture aspiring and current middle leaders within our school community. 

If you’re considering joining us, you’ll find that St Dunstan’s is a school where career progression is not just a possibility but a priority. We are committed to helping our staff grow, thrive, and achieve their leadership ambitions. 

The AIR (Autonomy, Inspiration, Relationships) Leadership Pathway is our 18 month structured leadership development programme tailored for those taking their first steps into leadership or seeking to enhance their skills as middle leaders. It’s ideal for Heads of Department, Heads of Year, or any member of staff ready to embrace new challenges. 

The programme provides a blend of practical learning, inspiration, and collaborative opportunities, ensuring participants develop the confidence and skills to lead effectively. It includes  

• Regular lectures and workshops focusing on leadership development 

• Access to recommended reading to expand your perspective 

• Optional one-on-one coaching conversations 

• Opportunities to lead small-scale change management projects 

By choosing St Dunstan’s, you’re joining a school that prioritizes its people. Our leadership programme is just one of the many ways we invest in our staff, offering clear pathways for career progression and a supportive environment where you can flourish as a leader.

For staff looking to develop their careers further, we regularly offer secondment opportunities onto the Senior School Leadership Team.  

If you are passionate about teaching and ready to grow your career in an environment that values your development, St Dunstan’s could be the perfect place for you.

Explore our vacancies and take the first step towards becoming part of our dynamic and forward-thinking team. 

Supporting Initial Teacher Training and Early Career Teachers at St Dunstan’s 

At St Dunstan’s, we are passionate about nurturing the next generation of outstanding educators. Our commitment to initial teacher training (ITT) and early career teachers (ECTs) ensures a supportive and enriching environment where new professionals can thrive, develop their confidence, and achieve their aspirations. 

At St Dunstan’s, we are proud to invest in our staff, fostering a culture of collaboration, mentorship, and continuous professional growth. Whether you’re beginning your teaching career or looking to join a school that champions development, we invite you to explore our vacancies and become part of the St Dunstan’s community.

A Comprehensive Approach to Development 

We work with leading institutions such as ISTIP and the University of Buckingham to deliver high-quality training for ECTs, PGCE students, and unqualified teachers. In addition, our bespoke Teacher Development Programme (TDP) provides tailored in-house support to ensure all new teachers are equipped to excel. 

Our ITTs and ECTs enjoy autonomy in their development from the start, by engaging in reflective enquiry projects that address areas for development, culminating in presentations at our annual ECT Symposium.

Read some of the summaries in our CPL bulletins.

A Culture of Mentoring and Coaching 

At St Dunstan’s, we believe that mentoring and coaching are essential to supporting staff at the outset of their careers. ITTs and ECTs are each paired with a dedicated mentor who provides personalised guidance, offering feedback, encouragement, and strategies for growth. Additionally, our coaching approach enables them to engage in structured conversations focused on professional development, ensuring they feel supported every step of the way. 

 

Find out more about professional development at St Dunstan's College with our termly CPL Bulletin.

Lent 2025

Trinity 2024

Lent 2024