Professional development

Great teaching is at the heart of what we do. We believe that a comprehensive teacher development program is central to the success of the language courses we design and deliver.

The program includes the following:

1. Dialogue

Our teachers are involved in decision-making with regards to their needs from the onset. The Academic and Operations teams are in constant communication with teachers. Our teachers have told us that they need regular opportunities to network and meet other teachers and the Cactus Team. They also want to be able to share examples of best teaching practice and resources electronically. So this is what we are now working towards, with the start-up of the Teachers’ Zone.

2. Cactus Teacher Development Seminars

We host regular seminars and conferences with experienced Cactus teacher-trainers and external trainers. We encourage all Cactus teachers to attend these sessions, as they offer a useful way to stay up-to-date with modern methodologies in the classroom, and also provide a forum for teachers to meet and discuss classroom ideas and activities.

Calendar of Teacher training events 2010

• From January 2010 - Online - New course training seminars
• 30th January 2010 – London and across the UK - Same language teacher meetings

3. Same-Language Teacher Meetings

Cactus teachers are encouraged to develop their skills as peer trainers by hosting same-language meetings. We encourage everyone to attend as they help teachers to maintain a high standard of teaching. By sharing ideas and experiences, trainers can really work on improving their teaching skills and techniques.

4. A Virtual Staffroom

The Cactus community of teachers is strengthened with the support of the Teacher’s Zone- an interactive staffroom where we can communicate and support each other. Teachers can contribute advice, materials and lesson plans. There will be downloadable resources that are available on our website, with restricted access for our teachers. There are also specific language forums to facilitate an ongoing exchange of ideas. This is all coming soon to the Teachers’ Zone.

5. Observations

Teacher development is also monitored by regular peer and staff observations. The feedback from these is used to improve the quality and standardsof the classes we offer.