If you have any queries that are not answered here, please contact your regional provider.
1. Who should attend the Developing the Capacity for Sustained Improvement (DCSI) programme?
2. Will Fast Track teachers have access to the programme?
The programme is aimed at SLTs, therefore Fast Track teachers as part of SLTs will be eligible for the programme.
3. Do applicants have to have Qualified Teacher Status?
Yes – as the programme is for SLTs you would have Qualified Teacher Status. If you're unsure whether your group qualifies, please contact your local provider.
4. Does my headteacher have to recommend me for this programme?
This is a team programme so your headteacher would be involved in the selection of staff for the programme.
5. Are there any pre-requisite programmes which I must complete before I can do the DCSI programme?
Not necessarily, as this is a team programme designed to develop the capacity for sustained improvement and group learning.
6. Is DCSI a pre-requisite for any other programmes?
No. This is a stand alone programme designed for group development.
7. I'm not sure this is the right programme for me. Who can advise me?
We would recommend that you contact your local provider. It might be that the Working Together for Success programme would better suit the needs of your group.
8. How ICT literate do I need to be?
Only basic ICT literacy is necessary for this programme.
9. I need more information about eligibility for the programme. Where can I get this?
For further information, please contact your local provider.
DCSI is available nationally through NCSL providers. Please see the how to apply page for further information.
2. Can I access a printable copy of the application form?
Please contact your local provider to discuss.
3. Can I submit a hard copy application instead of an online application?
Please contact your local provider to discuss.
4. Does this programme accept applications from both groups and individuals?
No, this is a group programme. Please see the eligibility section for further information.
The programme is client specific so there are no predetermined venues. Please contact your local provider to discuss your requirements directly.
6. When does the next application round begin?
This is a rolling programme so there are no specific application rounds. Contact your local provider to find out about the latest availability.
7. When is the deadline for submitting applications to the programme?
This is a rolling programme so there are no specific deadlines for applications. Please contact your local provider for further details.
8. I would like to work with a colleague headteacher. Is this possible?
Please see the eligibility criteria for further details.
9. Will there be any briefings or taster sessions for the programme prior to applying?
No, DCSI does not run taster sessions.
1. What is the overall time commitment for this programme?
The programme is structured over 12 months and has three stages. See the programme structure page for more information.
2. How long is the programme? How many residential days are there?
3. Do I have to attend all sessions?
Yes, to maximise the learning benefits you need to attend all the sessions, however, these dates are flexible. Please contact your local provider for further details.
4. What support is available throughout the programme?
There will be ongoing support from the provider and facilitators/consultants.
5. Are there any assessed activities or pieces of work?
No, but participants are encouraged to keep a learning journal throughout the programme.
6. What other programmes, events or resources are available to me in this area?
The Working Together for Success programme may also be of interest to you.
1. How do I access the online communities and materials?
There is support through the online community TeamsWork, but participants are not required to have specific ICT skills. This is primarily a face-to-face programme.
2. Do I have to use online facilities?
You will be required to access TeamsWork for updated information and resources.
3. Where can I get technical support for problems with online materials/access?
You can contact the NCSL helpdesk on 0845 609 0009 or send an email to enquiries@ncsl.org.uk.
4. Will the facilitators be there to help me online?
There is online support through TeamsWork, but participants are not required to have specific ICT skills. This is primarily a face-to-face programme.
5. Do I have to pay for materials?
Access to TeamsWork is part of the overall cost of the programme.
6. Can I use the materials afterwards in my school setting?
Working within NCSL's guidance on IPR, participating schools can use the materials in-house.
1. How much does this programme cost?
The cost of the programme is determined by your local provider. Please contact your provider for further details.
2. Are there any grants available?
Grants are not available from NCSL. You will need to contact your local authority or diocesan officer.
1. Will I receive any form of accreditation for completing the programme?
Participating teams who successfully complete the stage 3 review event will receive a certificate confirming their involvement in the programme.
2. Are there any other related opportunities available to me?
The Working Together for Success programme may also be of interest to you.
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