1. What is happening to WTFS?
The decision has been taken to close Developing Capacity for Sustained Improvement and Working Together for Success, and the final programmes will run from now until March 2010.
Despite the programmes' significant impact on school leadership, the rapidly changing and complex context for senior leaders with new models of leadership and the need for great flexibility means that a new approach to team development is required. For senior leaders in secondary schools a new programme, Developing Senior Leadership Teams (DSLT), will be available from September 2009. NCSL is working with the profession to identify levels of demand and the most appropriate way of meeting the needs of senior leadership teams in primary schools.
2. Which programmes are closing?
Working Together for Success and Developing the Capacity for Sustained Improvement.
the application round for both programmes closed on 31 May 2009. It is, therefore, no longer possible to apply for either programme.
4. Will this affect WTFS participants?
No. As the WTFS programme lasts for less than two terms, anyone joining at the latest point (end of May 2009) will have completed the programme by the time the programme closes in March 2010.
5. Will NCSL have any new provision for team development?
A new programme is being developed for those in the secondary sector. It is called Developing Senior Leadership Teams (DSLT). The aim of the programme is to deliver a high quality and fit for purpose team programme for senior leaders in secondary schools – especially those in challenging circumstances.
NCSL is currently reviewing its primary provision as part of its recently expanded remit. More information will be provided in due course.
6. Where do I get more information about the closure of WTFS?
If you need more information, you can either email wtfs@ncsl.org.uk or bookmark this page, as any updates will be posted here.
1. What is the overall time commitment for this programme?
Working together for Success (WTFS) is structured over a term-and-a-half to two terms, and comprises:
A school's senior leadership team (SLT) members can attend the first two residential days at different times individually, but the whole SLT must be together for the remainder of the programme.
2. Do I have to attend all sessions?
Yes, to maximise the learning benefits, you need to attend all the sessions, but these dates are flexible, please contact your local provider for more details.
3. What support is available throughout the programme?
Support will be available from the facilitators leading the programme, particularly in the interactions phase which is school based.
4. Are there any assessed activities or pieces of work?
No - however you may be interested in pursuing accreditation, please contact your local provider for further information.
1. How do I access the online communities and materials?
Your local provider will ensure you are able to achieve access when the team programmes sites are fully developed.
2. Do I have to use the online facilities?
No but there is valuable information, extension activities and links for those keen to maintain learning beyond the programme
3. Will the facilitators be there to help me online?
Not yet in the way the site is currently managed but the materials are easy to access
4. Do I have to pay for materials?
No this is included in the fees agreed with your provider.
5. Can I use the materials afterwards in my school setting?
Yes - as long as this remains within the school or collaborative as agreed via the contract with your local provider. NCSL retains the intellectual copyright for the programme and materials from the programme should not be used wholly or in part elsewhere without specific prior permission.
1. How much does this programme cost?
The cost of this programme is determined by your local provider, please contact them for further details
2. Are there any grants available?
Your local authority may be able to help. Please contact your local contact to check whether there are any such funds.
1. Will I receive any form of accreditation for completing the programme?
Participants who successfully complete the programme will receive a certificate confirming their involvement in the programme. If you wish to pursue formal accreditation please contact your local provider to check what possibilities exist.
2. Are there any other related opportunities available to me?
Please see other areas of our website: