Developing a Leadership Role Within the Key Stage 1 Curriculum

Book excerpt: Since 1989, initial teacher training courses in England and Wales have recognized the need for teachers to take a lead in a school subject area in their first appointment. There is no longer a place for a primary school teacher (newly qualified or not) whose sole responsibility is his or her own class. Further, a teacher must have specific specialist knowledge and expertise in particular subjects which must be disseminated to the rest of the staff. A teacher also needs to develop the skills of communication, leadership and persuasion.