Secondary Mastery Specialists

What are Teaching for Mastery Specialists?

Sign up here to find out when application open for Secondary Mastery Specialist Programme for 2026/27

Want to become a specialist in teaching for mastery and support your own school to develop teaching for mastery approaches? Join the Secondary Mastery Specialist Programme. During the course of the programme you will receive fully-funded professional development from experts, have time to develop your own expertise, and then to support others.

Any teacher (excluding ECTs) who is teaching maths in a state-funded secondary school in England and who wishes to develop both their own classroom practice and their skills in leading professional development with others, can apply to become a Secondary Mastery Specialist.

Learn what's involved in the application process by downloading this information document.

Hear from a teacher who has been part of the programme as he explains how teaching for mastery has revolutionised the way he teaches, and has had a positive impact on his students.

What is involved?

This two-year programme supports secondary maths teachers to become experts in teaching for mastery and lead change within their schools.

Teachers will strengthen their classroom practice and learn how to support colleagues. They will explore the NCETM’s The Essence of Mathematics Teaching for Mastery, working closely with their subject leader to embed these approaches across the department. Participants will also complete the NCETM Professional Development Lead Programme, gaining the skills to lead effective CPD.

What is involved?

Secondary maths teachers in state-funded schools in England with QTS and at least two years’ teaching experience. Applicants should be committed to develop their own teaching and support improvement across their department.

What will you learn?

• You will deepen classroom practice and help students build deep, connected mathematical understanding
• You will complete the NCETM PD Lead Programme and learn how to support colleagues through CPD
• You will take part in around 7.5 days of professional development, including workshops, school-based activity and collaborative planning
• You will observe teaching for mastery in other secondary and primary schools

A two-year central programme

Meet Our Secondary and Post -16 Mastery  Specalists Team

TESTIMONIAL

"I have been teaching mathematics for 17 years. Taking part in the Teaching for Mastery programme has rejuvenated my practice and taught me so much, even after only 3 meetings. My year 7 and 8 students are thinking far more deeply about mathematical concepts and I firmly believe this will lead to them become far more competent mathematicians, as well as resulting in them appreciating the beauty of mathematics, beyond being a collection of facts and processes. I would wholeheartedly encourage any teacher considering the programme to get on board. They will not regret it."

 

Head of Maths at St Olave's and St Saviour's Grammar School (2021)