In partnership with
Flourishing Teacher Programme
Why this Course?
Suitable for:
Teachers in their 3rd year of teaching and those looking to develop their craft as a teacher.
About the programme:
The Flourishing Teacher Programme is a structured personal and professional development initiative designed to support, sustain and strengthen the teaching profession. With a focus on deepening reflective practice and reconnecting with the core principles of teaching, it offers space for teachers to pause, reflect and critically engage with their professional journey in today’s evolving educational environment.
Course content:
The Flourishing Teacher Programme addresses five common challenges faced by teachers (Kennedy, 20164), aligning these with the essential principles of the Model for Great Teaching (Coe, 20205). These challenges, which may also be explored through an optional faith-based lens, are then examined within the context of the Flourishing Domains.
- Understanding the curriculum Designing an accessible, meaningful curriculum requires combining strong subject knowledge with an understanding of how pupils learn, using clear explanations, purposeful tasks, and well-sequenced content to support all learners (Kennedy, 2016; Coe, 2020).
- Creating a supportive environment Great teachers foster a safe, respectful, and motivating classroom environment by building trust, setting high expectations, and developing strong relationships that give pupils a sense of belonging and autonomy (Kennedy, 2016; Coe, 2020).
- Revealing and activating pupil thinking Skilled teachers uncover misconceptions and encourage deep thinking by using questioning, assessment, and scaffolding to understand how pupils learn and support their progress toward independence (Kennedy, 2016; Coe, 2020).
- Maximising opportunities to learn Effective teachers protect learning time and manage behavior by establishing calm, consistent classrooms with clear routines and proactive strategies that keep all pupils focused and engaged (Kennedy, 2016; Coe, 2020).
- Accommodating personal (teacher) needs Prioritising teacher wellbeing through healthy boundaries and supportive routines sustains a sense of purpose and enhances long-term motivation and effectiveness for both educators and their pupils (Kennedy, 2016).
- Faith-based exploration The optional faith-based exploration provides teachers a space to reflect on how their personal beliefs and values inform their pedagogy, promoting a holistic view of teaching as both a craft and a calling.
An international movement rooted in a local community:
This programme is being completed by school staff around the world. The Flourishing movement is an evidence-informed international approach that nurtures both personal growth and leadership transformation. Leaders are encouraged to reflect deeply on their values, beliefs and identity – because flourishing schools begin with flourishing individuals.
Learning Environment
Flourishing teachers join a trust-wide group, guided by Pathfinder senior leaders, where they become part of a supportive and collaborative Community of Practice.
Colleagues are offered a mix of synchronous and asynchronous engagement. Surrounded by like-minded leaders working in similar contexts, colleagues are supported to build confidence, share ideas, and grow their leadership together.
In-Person Launch & Closing: Two 3.5-hour in-person sessions at Pathfinder TSH (one at the start, one at the end).
Core Modules (5 Total): Each module includes:
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A 90-minute twilight session
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2 hours of self-directed study
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One or two optional 30-minute peer partner catch-ups
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Group Coaching: Three 1.5-hour online group coaching sessions, scheduled throughout the programme.
The Flourishing Domains
The Flourishing Leaders programmes focuses on five interconnected domains that create the conditions for thriving in schools.
Flourishing Together
Purpose
A clear, shared purpose unites everyone in the school community, providing direction and meaning. It inspires collective commitment to a common vision grounded in the school’s identity, mission and values.
Relationships
Flourishing depends on the quality of our relationships. When pupils, teachers, leaders and families feel valued and connected, schools become inclusive communities where everyone can thrive within a supportive and innovative environment.
Teaching and Learning
Pupil success is closely linked to the ongoing learning of teachers and the wider school community. By working together as a ‘community of practice,’ teachers continually develop their skills, fostering intellectual growth alongside shared values and mutual respect.
Resources and Expertise
The environment matters. Beyond having sufficient physical, technological and human resources, flourishing requires responsible stewardship—valuing, sharing and managing resources fairly to support all members of the school community.
Wellbeing
The wellbeing of pupils and staff is vital. Healthy habits and resilience enable flourishing, but leaders must prioritise their own wellbeing first to maintain their capacity to support others effectively and avoid burnout.
Applications Welcome
This course is fully funded by Pathfinder Multi-Academy Trust.
We welcome applications from colleagues across the Trust. Please note that once you have submitted your application, a reference will be requested from your Headteacher as part of the application process. As such, we advise you speak with them in the first instance and then begin your application.
Our January 2027 programme cohort is capped at 20 colleagues. We expect a high volume of applications. Please ensure you take your time to complete the application to your highest standard. Please get in touch with the Pathfinder Education Partnership team if you require any support.
Applications from colleagues representing diverse and underrepresented backgrounds are especially welcome.
Please click here to apply.
Course Dates
Please note that that the programme covers the period of January – December 2027. All event dates will be shared once you are successfully onboarded.
