National CPD scholarship scheme launches

As a follow-up to the Government White Paper 'The Importance of Teaching', a National scholarship scheme has been launched as part of the Government's plans to attract graduates into teaching. The scholarship scheme will be administered by the Training and Development Agency for Schools (TDA) and allows all teachers working in eligible schools in England, with qualified teacher status, to apply for scholarship grants up to a maximum of £3,500 to fund their attendance on professional development programmes and activities to support and strengthen their subject knowledge or specific knowledge and skills.

The aims of the scheme are to:

Round one of the scholarship scheme will focus on four priority areas where there is a known shortage of expertise, and which reflect Government priorities. Teachers are invited to apply if they wish to develop or strengthen their subject knowledge and skills in:

How to apply

The TDA website has full information about the scheme, including the application process, as well as eligibility, and details of assessment and payment; a guidance document is also available to download.

Applications must be received by 30 September 2011.