Since its launch in 2014, the programme has helped over 1,000 Mastery Specialists enhance maths teaching, supported by significant government funding for future expansion. The Secondary Mastery Specialist Programme is now more accessible to classroom teachers, enhancing its impact within maths departments. The programme has improved student outcomes and experiences, and now seeks to broaden its reach. This exciting opportunity allows teachers to advance maths education through teaching for mastery approaches, while also developing leadership and professional skills. Participants will focus on their own development and that of their department, with the option to collaborate with other schools in the future. State-funded Secondary schools are invited to nominate lead teachers for this long-term professional development programme. The goal is to drive lasting change within departments, supported by the involvement of subject leaders.
who can apply?
Maths teachers with QTS in state-funded secondary schools who have at least two years of teaching experience are eligible to apply to become a Secondary Mastery Specialist. Teachers should have a strong desire to develop both their own classroom practice and their skills in leading professional development within their department
What is involved?
- Year One: you participate in several professional development training events and focus on developing your own classroom teaching
- Year Two: you continue to participate in training events and focus on developing teaching for mastery approaches within your own department and honing your skills in leading professional development. To support you, you will be enrolled in the NCETM’s PD Lead Programme during to gain a good understanding of how to lead professional development effectively.
For Year One of training you can expect the following time requirements:
5.5 days (equivalent) attending centrally run NCETM training
2 days of in-school and in-hub development time to include:
- developing approaches in your own classroom
- developing lessons and resources in collaboration with other Cohort 11 peers
- visiting classrooms (primary and secondary) to see teaching for mastery in action
- You will be supported by an experienced Secondary Mastery Specialist from the NEHS Maths Hub who will visit you in your school three times across the year.
The headteacher, or SLT representative from your school is required to attend a half-day launch session with you, to ensure the school understands the programme and can provide full support.
What are the expectations of my school?
Your school will be expected to support you in releasing you for the 7.5 days specified above as well as supporting you in implementing the approaches in your classroom.
There is also an expectation that your subject leader will participate in the NEHS Maths Hub’s Secondary Subject Leaders community events, 3 times per year.
What is the cost?
The Secondary Mastery Specialist Programme is fully funded by the Maths Hubs Programme so is provided free to participants and their schools.
This training programme attracts funding towards release time for the participant’s school.
what should i do next?
Applications are now open for the 26/27 (Cohort 11) Secondary Mastery Specialist training programme. Please download the the Information Sheet and read carefully prior to clicking the Apply Now button. This will take you to the NCETM’s Axis system to apply. You will need to register for an Axis account if you don’t already have one.