YCAT CPD

YCAT is committed to being an employer of choice. As part of this commitment, we provide regular, in-house training at all levels including:

• Teaching assistants
• Early career teachers
• Teaching staff
• Subject leaders/coordinators
• Leadership staff
• Administration and business management staff
• Trustees and governors

Termly cross school training ensures our staff are kept up to date with current developments and best practice.

We recognise the importance of the role of trustees and governors but understand the logistical issues they face in attending training sessions.  The experience of lockdown during the Covid-19 pandemic has made us realise the potential of online training for rural schools that will save Governors and Trustees time from travelling and during 2021/22 all our updated training will be recorded so that Governors will be able to access it at a time of their choice. 

As our schools have had a key role in the development of  the HART Alliance, we have access to a wide range of expertise and training programmes throughout the year. YCAT staff are involved in the development of many of these programmes, following research into new techniques and approaches.

Programmes for 2025-6

Leadership that drives learning: focusing on what works Course content: Establishing strong leadership across the school to ensure improvement priorities are fully achieved by moving away from ineffective practices and focusing on approaches that have the greatest impact on children's learning and progress.

Writing progression: a systematic approach Building foundational writing knowledge systematically to ensure pupils progress at the right pace.

Understanding the new Ofsted framework Course content: Equipping teachers with the key information and insights they need to stay informed and prepared.

Effective adjustments in maths Course Content: Making effective adjustments in maths to meet the learning needs of all children.

Ensuring an ambitious curriculum and provision for vulnerable pupils Course content: Ensuring an ambitious curriculum and provision for vulnerable, SEND, and disadvantaged pupils. Understanding what ambition looks like, and materials to support your reviews and identification of appropriate adjustments.

Supporting teaching assistants Course content: Updates on key provision, and how to ensure learning support improves children’s fluency and recall of essential knowledge.

Evaluating the impact of your practice in the EYFS Course content: What leaders and teachers need to know and implement consistently.

Making a Difference in PSED Making a difference in Personal, Social & Emotional Development: evaluating and enhancing your curriculum for greater impact.