Adapting Coaching for Teachers at Different Levels of Expertise

The ability to adapt instructional coaching to accommodate the diverse levels of expertise among teachers within a school is paramount for fostering continuous growth and improvement in education. Every teacher possesses a unique set of skills, experiences, and areas for development. Tailoring coaching approaches ensures that educators receive personalised support aligned with their specific needs, whether they’re novice teachers seeking foundational guidance or experienced educators aiming for refinement. This module will explore the determinants of teaching expertise, strategies for diagnosing and addressing challenges in the classroom, and delve into the expertise reversal effect and its relevance to coaching. It will also unpick methods for achieving a more nuanced approach when working with experienced teachers.

This module is suitable for Instructional coaches, senior leaders (especially with responsibility for teaching and learning/professional development, middle leaders, teachers).

• What determines teaching expertise?
• How can you diagnose and treat challenges in the classroom?
• What is the expertise reversal effect and why does it matter for coaching?
• How can you get to a ‘finer grain’ with more expert teachers?