I’ve had a few conversations recently about developing subject knowledge.
For my own part, I’m still developing my subject knowledge, it’s a never-ending piece of work and I enjoy it! Here are some of the things I’ve found helpful:
1 Talking to others doing the same work as me, either in person or online. The subject communities on Twitter/X for example are great sources of information and support. I’ve compiled lists of the subject on my X, link here
2 Subject associations are really good value and many offer free resources.
3 The five steps for subjects, where we provide the subject chapters from the Huh series, plus links to the subject networks on Myatt & Co (£/free trial)
4 The Ofsted curriculum reviews, which highlight the strengths and areas for development.
5 Using high quality resources is also a way of developing subject knowledge. For example, if I’m teaching about evolution in Year 6 and I don’t have a background in science, I could use ‘On the Origin of Species’ by Savina Radeva. This means my own subject knowledge grows. I’m using the book to teach my pupils and I’m also getting better at the subject myself!
I reckon that using high quality texts and materials are an underestimated element of professional development.
We’ve developed The Teachers’ Collection to support this work by linking units from the national curriculum programmes of study to great books. And to make it even easier, we’ve written draft planning units and knowledge organisers. You can find the evolution materials here (£/free sample).
Until next time
Mary
PS There’s plenty happening on the Huh Academy in the next few weeks!
We’ve got an exciting course coming up, showing how simple, powerful coaching tools can support the well-being & effectiveness of all staff in schools.
Free webinar Thurs 12 Oct 7pm with Dr Emma Kell and me!
Cohort 2 of the Leadership Lobby is now open and you can watch the introduction webinar here & booking here
And Finding My Voice is a brilliant new programme aimed at holistically developing young minds through robust oracy practices.
Don’t miss the Live Launch: Monday 16th Oct, 5:30 PM!