Catalyst: An evidence-informed, collaborative professional learning resource for teacher leaders and other leaders working within and across schools

Catalyst is a professional learning tool that was created as a result of a collaborative research and development project between the UCL Institute of Education and Challenge Partners. It aims to improve understanding and skills in teacher/middle leadership, stimulate evidence-informed conversations, and enhance leadership within schools and across networks.

Format: Cards
Length: 56 pages
Publication date: 28 October 2021
Publisher: Crown House Publishing

Catalyst is a cutting-edge professional learning tool designed to bring to life the insights and outcomes of a collaborative research and development project conducted by researchers from the UCL Institute of Education and Challenge Partners, an informal national network of schools. This project aimed to explore four critical questions:
1. What are the key factors that influence effective middle leadership within and across schools, leading to changes in teachers' practice?
2. What are the most effective strategies for sharing knowledge about excellent middle leadership practices within and across schools?
3. How can evidence-based tools be designed to track and measure the impact of middle leaders' interventions on teachers' practice?
4. What leadership conditions within schools foster and embed cultures of shared outstanding practice?
To address these questions, the Catalyst project developed a comprehensive collection of resources. This includes two sets of resource cards, a detailed facilitator guide, a comprehensive bibliography, and photocopiable resources that can be downloaded for use by staff in schools across different contexts and age ranges.
The primary objective of the Catalyst process is to enhance the understanding, skills, and expertise of teacher/middle leaders. It seeks to stimulate evidence-informed conversations about teacher/middle leadership, fostering deep and meaningful learning. By supporting skilled facilitation of these conversations, the tool encourages inquiry, improves problem-solving, and enhances decision-making through collaboration. Moreover, it aims to strengthen leadership within schools, across networks, and school partnerships.
The Catalyst process is structured to facilitate a systematic and comprehensive approach to professional development. It begins with an introduction to the key concepts and principles of effective middle leadership, followed by a review of relevant research and evidence. The resource cards provide practical insights and strategies for implementing effective middle leadership practices, while the facilitator guide offers guidance and tips for facilitating meaningful conversations. The bibliography provides a wealth of resources for further exploration and learning.
In conclusion, Catalyst is a powerful tool that empowers educators to enhance their understanding, skills, and expertise in teacher/middle leadership. By leveraging the insights and outcomes of this collaborative project, educators can foster effective change in their schools and contribute to the development of a more collaborative and effective education system.

Weight: 660g
Dimension: 171 x 227 x 28 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781785835544