In-service education of teachers in small primary schools in Wales

Abstract

This article reviews the position of the small school with particular reference to In-Service Education (INSET) and collaborative practice between small schools generally, and more specifically in the Welsh context. It goes on to discuss the findings of the ‘INSET in Small Primary Schools in Wales Report’ (Williams et al, 1995) and their implications for future small school INSET. The key findings were that collaborative practice between schools is widespread and deemed essential by those involved, and that not much small school specific INSET has been available in the past. The paper concludes that future INSET will need to focus on small school issues such as developing pedagogy appropriate for classes of wide ranging ages and abilities, preparing headteachers for the duel role of teacher/manager and supporting collaborative practice between schools