This compulsory strand of the course provides a coherent and progressive course of study, which compliments, reinforces, enhances and develops the other strands of the course.

It provides an academic and theoretical framework of values and knowledge, which underpin the detailed, practical skills of teaching. It supports Trainees by providing opportunities for them to explore, and become conversant with a wide range of current issues, and thus place the education system within a broad context.

The programme examines current educational practice and issues and encourages Trainees to examine and challenge their own and others educational beliefs and values. It provides an opportunity to look at how schools and societies address these issues.

By examining a whole school perspective, the programme gives Trainees the opportunity to gain a critical understanding of the current concepts of the characteristics of effective schools. It looks at quality and accountability in education as well as ‘value added’ in the wider social and political context. The course is delivered by teachers within the Partnership schools, consultants and other personnel who have national and local expertise across a range of interests, either directly or indirectly associated with education.

The programme also considers the contractual, legal responsibilities and duties of teachers.