From the Teacher Support Network, www.teachersupport.info.

TRADING PLACES
Learn new skills and gain experience through a temporary job trade

Trading Places is a course that gives teachers the opportunity to experience teaching at another school or age group without having to change jobs.

The idea is simple - two teachers from two different schools or jobs 'swap places' for a short period of time to learn new skills and further their professional development.

The benefits to teaching staff who take part are immense. The chance to experience 'life' in another role, confidence building, experience of different methods of planning and behavioural management as well as the chance to deal with a wider variety of pupils, their needs and fellow staff.

This course could be particularly useful if you are thinking of moving from primary to secondary or visa versa. For more information on changing age groups see our factsheet switching between primary and secondary.

If you are interested in taking part in Trading Places you can either contact your Local Authority to see if they are running the course or talk to your headteacher.