Of everything a school controls, teaching has the greatest effect on how well children learn. So supporting teachers is one of the most useful things a school, a community or a government can do.
Professional learning The EEF's guidance on effective professional development found that the programmes with the best evidence share four features: they build knowledge, motivate teachers, develop teaching techniques and embed practice. In particular, they are sustained over time, include collaboration with colleagues, use expert input, and give time to practise. A single training day is rarely enough. See also observing lessons.
Trust and autonomy Teachers do better when they have a say in how they teach, within shared goals. Self-determination theory suggests that autonomy, a sense of competence and a sense of belonging support motivation, and this applies to adults as well as to children. Heavy checking and many tick-box tasks reduce all three.
Workload and wellbeing Teaching involves hard emotional work and heavy workloads. Work-related stress is a health and safety issue in the UK; the Health and Safety Executive publishes standards for managing it. Reducing unnecessary paperwork, offering reasonable timetables and making time for planning matter. See work-life balance.
Teaching assistants and specialists Teaching assistants make a real difference when they are well trained and used to deliver structured support, not simply to sit beside the pupils who struggle most. The EEF's guidance on teaching assistants sets out how.
What helps in the classroom - Clear routines and shared expectations on behaviour. See a positive learning environment. - Access to good materials and time to plan. - Peers to discuss practice with. - Recognition from leaders and families.
What parents can do - Keep communication respectful and specific; ask how you can help at home. - Remember that teachers are looking after many children. - Share useful information early, such as a change at home. - Work with the school on shared goals. The EEF's guidance on working with parents offers practical ideas.
A school where teachers feel supported is one where children are likely to be happier too.