Landmark Agreement for Professional Development

A landmark partnership agreement between Edge Hill University and the Association of Teachers and Lecturers (ATL) has been given the seal of approval by Education Secretary Alan Johnson.

The partnership will boost the professional development opportunities available to ATL members and represents a meeting of minds as Edge Hill is the largest provider of professional development for teachers and school support staff in the country, while ATL has identified professional development of its members as a key priority.

ATL members will now have access to supported accreditation for professional development activities undertaken as part of their work, providing an opportunity to gain qualifications up to Masters level. For school support staff, accreditation can be linked to undergraduate flexible programmes.

Dean of the Faculty of Education Robert Smedley said: "We are delighted to be working with ATL to provide its members with professional development opportunities. We are looking forward to working with members to provide academic support and guidance to help them achieve their professional goals. We are also working with the Association to accredit their own in-house training, in effect enhancing members' careers."

In addition, negotiations are underway for Edge Hill to deliver some of these courses on behalf of ATL to meet a growing demand for continuing professional development (CPD).

Dr Mary Bousted, ATL general secretary said: "ATL is very excited about this new partnership with Edge Hill, as they are a highly respected provider of professional development for teachers and school support staff. Our members know how important CPD - good quality CPD - is to their careers. Working together, we will be able to meet this rising demand amongst our members; supporting both their career development and their impact in the classroom."