Professional Development & Lifelong Learning  

We know that our students get the best from our teams when they are passionate, inspirational and motivated, so we have a number of opportunities for learning and development, to ensure that our people retain a love of teaching, and understand the latest and most exciting developments in their subject.  

We encourage ambition and progression in a number of ways; 

• We will support you during your probationary period – we offer all teachers the opportunity to observe others, a buddy to talk to and share ideas with, and regular 121s with our middle leaders, to ensure you are settling and adapting to life at Howell’s.  

• We will ask you to identify your areas of interest through termly Continuous Conversations with your line manager, whether formal training or developing a particular area of expertise, and facilitating these where possible.  

• We will encourage you to access GDST Learn, the online training portal which includes courses on teaching and learning, pastoral care, leadership and management, and diversity and inclusion.  

• We ensure our INSET days are relevant and supportive, including opportunities for CPD, wellbeing and to reconnect with colleagues.    

• We have a provision for study leave for teaching staff (following a qualifying period of service), to allow staff to take time away from the classroom and return with renewed enthusiasm and inspiration for our students.  

*Unfortunately as an independent school we are not able to support the QTS induction programme*    

“I would say the most beneficial aspect of working for Howells while undertaking my IPGCE is the unique balance of practical experience and theoretical knowledge. Teaching first-hand showed me invaluable insights into the everyday challenges and dynamics of teaching. It allowed me to apply the pedagogical theories directly to my teaching practice. The immediate application helped me become adaptable and increased my confidence when delivering content to students. Lastly, it allowed me to form strong relationships with colleagues, mentors and students creating constant professional development.” Macey Lane, PE Teacher & iPGCE student 2022   

“I am approximately halfway through the ILM Level 4 Diploma in Leadership & Management for Business and, to date, the experience has been excellent. I have been able to fit the course well into my work schedule, as there is flexibility, and my tutors, line manager and colleagues are all incredibly supportive. It is already boosting my leadership and management skills as well as building my confidence, and there are clear opportunities for development within my role where I will be able to use these skills in the work I undertake. I am enormously grateful to Howell’s for giving me the opportunity to take this qualification.” Hannah Roberts, Engagement Officer 

“Working for Howell’s is an immense privilege, one that provides continuous opportunity to grow professionally. I was keen to develop my career at Howell’s and they supported me with this by providing me with the opportunity to gain a new qualification, whilst continuing to work. This allowed me to gain first-hand experience on the job. Not only has this benefited me, but also the school, as I am now an EAL Teacher for a myriad of foreign language students, providing specialised support in English Language. This also came at an essential time due to our intake of Ukrainian students. I am extremely motivated to continue progressing in my career at Howell’s and know that I have the full support of the school in my successes.” Aimee Hawkins, EAL Teacher    

"I was lucky enough to be part funded for an M.A in Creative Writing at Swansea University.  This helped me develop my critique skills, review and rewrite schemes of work on short stories, and learn all about how the professional writers construct their stories! I also learnt a lot about the publishing world and made contacts with local writers, which means I can talk more confidently about careers in the arts. I’ve run CPD in my department to share my knowledge and this has helped develop my students’ reading and writing too. I really appreciate having had this opportunity." Sarah Persson, English Teacher