Professional development

• Leading from the Middle
  • Who is LftM for?
  • Programme details
  • Role of the coach
  • Benefits
  • Costs
  • Apply
  • Providers
  • Frequently asked questions
  • Contact details

Leading from the Middle

Leading from the Middle (LftM) is a 10-month professional development programme for middle leaders.

The programme supports the leadership development of middle leaders in five key areas: leadership of innovation and change; knowledge and understanding of their role in leading teaching and learning; enhancing self-confidence and skills as team leaders; building team capacity through the efficient use of staff and resources; active engagement in self-directed change in a blended learning environment.

Key facts

• LftM increases middle leaders' ability to lead innovation and change.
• During 2009 the programme has undergone change and will be delivered to targeted groups.
• The programme itself, and the new delivery approach, encourages collaborative learning and working across schools.

Duration

10 months

Delivery method

The programme uses a combination of online tools and face-to-face sessions. Emphasis is also placed on the role of the school-based coaches.

Who can apply?

LftM is principally (but not exclusively) targeted at schools that meet the following criteria:

• a contextual value add (CVA) score in the bottom quartile (primary: less than 99.3; secondary: less than 990.1)
• a school that wishes to address, or has been identified to address, a demonstrable local need
• turnover of 20 per cent or more in their middle leaders within the 12 months up to application

Learning groups or collaboratives wishing to take part should consist of schools where 25 to 75 per cent of the schools meet the above criteria.

A learning group or collaborative typically comprises between 18 and 24 participants. Therefore if the group consists of 20 participants a minimum of 5 and a maximum of 15 of them need to meet the criteria. No schools are ineligible.

Please note that it is not a requirement for all schools in the group to possess the above criteria in order to be eligible for the programme. Only 25-75 per cent of the group is required to meet the above criteria.

If you are unsure about your eligibility for the programme or for further details, please contact your regional provider.

Next application round

The application round for Leading from the Middle is currently open.