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Fast Track Teaching residential training courses brochure 2008-09 (pdf, 1.56Mb, 40 pages)

Fast Track one-day conferences: Leading for the future flyer (pdf, 567kb, 2 pages)

In this section

Frances Vulpiani

Head of English and Literacy, and Advanced Skills Teacher, Rokeby School, Newham
On Fast Track September 2003 – July 2006

"I found out about Fast Track when I was looking into my teacher training options. When I was told about the opportunities it made available, I was sold. The professional development events in particular were mind-blowing – a fantastic chance to meet teachers from around the country, exchange ideas that went beyond my subject area, and go back into the classroom with a fresh perspective.

My personal leadership tutor was an inspiration and a great support. He was a sounding-board off of whom I could bounce ideas and concerns, and always made himself available, even outside school hours. The telephone coaching sessions were especially useful and I got a lot out of them. He also organised events for local teachers, inviting guest speakers, advanced skills teaching assessors and others who broadened our understanding through their experiences. I even gave a presentation on literacy at one of these events.

Quite early on in my career, I became a whole school literacy co-ordinator, so it made sense to make literacy my Wider School Focus. I later became a Key Stage 3 co-ordinator in English, so again I made this part of my Wider School Focus. I was able to encourage greater standards of literacy among children moving from Key Stage 3 upwards. While this meant a lot of additional work for me, it was rewarding to see the impact it had. It all prepared me for my current leadership role as Head of English and Literacy, as well as for my work as an Advanced Skills Teacher.

The best advice I could give a teacher thinking of applying to Fast Track is to go for it. Yes, it will be hard work at times and you are bound to encounter some people who think that you are moving too far, too fast. But the programme rewards you on merit only, so if you are ready for the challenges, can meet them head on and excel in everything you do, then Fast Track can prepare you for senior leadership."