Over 240 teachers have been recognised this academic session by the General Teaching Council for Scotland (GTC Scotland) for achieving the Standard for Headship.
Recipients gathered at an online event hosted by the independent regulator for teachers in Scotland, to celebrate their achievement and recognise the central role of teaching standards in helping instil public trust in the teaching profession.
Impactful teacher development
This year’s event focused on the critical role school leaders play in ensuring impactful teacher development. This included looking at the findings and recommendations from the research GTC Scotland, along with the SCEL Legacy Fund commissioned from the University of Glasgow about Professional Update.
Professional Update (PU), a requirement for Scotland’s teachers, involves teachers engaging in learning and development as key to upholding teaching standards.
Dr Pauline Stephen, GTC Scotland Chief Executive and Registrar said:
“School leaders are central to upholding teaching standards, using their professional judgement to interpret standards, apply guidance and act with integrity in the best interests of learners and the teaching profession.
“I am delighted that we were able to bring together so many of this year’s Standard for Headship recipients to reflect on their achievements and the important role the Standard plays in trusted teaching.”
About the Standard for Headship
Since August 2020 it has been a legal requirement for teachers taking up their first permanent headteacher post in local authority and grant-aided schools to hold the Standard for Headship.
Meeting the Standard for Headship can be demonstrated through successful completion of the Into Headship programme or an equivalent UK or international headship qualification.
Most people achieve the Standard for Headship by undertaking the accredited Into Headship programme.
This focuses on ensuring aspiring headteachers have the necessary skills required in management and strategic leadership, and a sound understanding of the theory and knowledge needed to be effective leaders for learners and colleagues.
The programme is delivered collaboratively by higher education institutions, local authorities and Education Scotland.
