DTSP is a partnership of 50 Primary and Special Schools based throughout Devon, Exeter, Plymouth and Torbay. Tarka Learning Partnership is one of the lead organisations for the Teaching School and has responsibility for its strategic development. Formed in 2012 we are available to support all schools across our region especially in Professional Teacher and Leadership Development, School Improvement and Research.

CPD – for Teachers and Leaders

We believe that the most effective form of continuing professional development (CPD) for teachers are longer term programmes, normally lasting at least a year that embed high quality practice. We run 3 cohorts of Newly Qualified Teachers (NQT) in North Devon, Exeter and Plymouth/Ivybridge providing further training and pastoral support for those new to teaching.

School Improvement

We believe that the most effective form of school improvement is to work collaboratively with schools to develop long term, the quality of teaching, learning and leadership. We are able to offer, sometimes with small grants, a bespoke package of support to meet the needs identified by schools. We have Headteachers and Specialist Leaders in Education to work alongside schools. We have particular specialisms in early years, inclusion, behaviour and assessment. If you would like to know more please call our Director, Andy Ogden on 01271-443120

Research

As a Teaching School we believe that evidence based practice using the best available research is fundamental to securing the quality of education for children. Each year we develop research projects which in recent years have had a focus on Developing Early Leadership and Computing. Currently we are working on Executive Function within Early Years, especially on children’s self-regulation. Copies of our research reports are available on our website.