A huge thank you to Emily Walker for leading an inspiring Whole School SEND Teaching Assistant (TA) Professional Development Project Day. The day was designed to support colleagues in enhancing professional development for our amazing Teaching Assistants, ensuring every young person can thrive.
Colleagues engaged in the Explore phase of implementation, reflecting on the specific needs of their settings, identifying priorities, and considering ways to develop expertise across their schools. The sessions encouraged curiosity, collaboration, and shared learning, providing staff with space to exchange ideas, reflect on experiences, and plan actionable next steps.
Building on the Education Endowment Foundation’s (EEF) Implementation Guidance, participants explored how to move from exploration to preparation. This included identifying the evidence, enablers, and barriers that will support sustainable and impactful change. Staff left the day equipped to implement projects in their own settings, fostering high-quality professional development and supporting the development of Teaching Assistant expertise.
This project aligns closely with Embark Federation’s Strategic Plan and its Collective Commitment to Inclusion, demonstrating our shared dedication to creating inclusive learning environments where every young person can reach their full potential.
The day was a valuable opportunity for colleagues to connect, share approaches, and reflect on ways to embed professional development in a meaningful and lasting way, ensuring positive impact on learning, progress, and experiences for all young people.
Together, we champion inclusion and learning for every young person.
