OUR education system is in need of help as our youngsters feel the brunt of the present inadequacies. While there are many factors affecting the state of our education system, one step in the right direction is mandatory continued professional development of our teachers.

Teacher training on a continual basis is a process of life-long learning and is a critical component of any education system. As it is with other careers, continued professional education (CPE) is an ongoing requirement to remain certified as a professional. Effective continual teacher training can transform the sector by producing good academic outcomes for our students, which is the primary goal.

Teaching is a skill where educators must be knowledgeable in their subject area, understand the learning needs of students, be able to design effective instruction and assessment, manage classroom behaviour and evaluate student progress. Continued training will assist the teacher to stay current with the latest methods and technology and to refine and improve on these proficiencies. For example, teachers should be sensitised to the needs of neurodivergent students and be equipped with hands-on knowledge of a variety of teaching methods. Creative teaching is also a topic whereby teachers ought to be up to date.

There are different approaches to teacher training and development which require various forms of investment. Apart from capital investment, funds need to be allocated to improve infrastructure and technology in all our schools. Continued professional education also has the added benefit of increasing teacher retention which is a grave problem in this country. This is not a ‘quick fix’ as monetary compensation is also a serious factor in this regard. Some approaches for continued teacher development are:

•Peer coaching — This involves pairing teachers together to observe each other’s teaching and to provide feedback. This is a powerful and inexpensive method to assist teachers to reflect and make improvements. It also builds relationships.

• Attending workshops and conferences — These events could be sponsored by alumni, stakeholders, private and public sectors and other interested parties. They provide opportunities to learn from experts and to exchange ideas thus broadening the scope of awareness and information.

• Online courses — There are now numerous online courses available that teachers can take to enhance their skills and knowledge. Online courses offer the advantage of flexibility and convenience as teachers can learn at their own pace from any location with an internet connection.

• Engage in experiential learning — Many of our new and qualified teachers could still benefit from job shadowing before being left completely on their own. A more experienced and knowledgeable teacher could mentor this new teacher.

Teaching is complex and requires a range of skills. Teachers who feel supported and valued are more likely to stay in the profession. As they develop professionally, teachers will understand their students better and will be better equipped to handle the challenges of the classroom. We ought to prioritise teacher investment and recognise the vital role that teachers play in shaping the future of our society. Let us make use of the summer break to provide teachers with continued professional education.

Dr Karla Hylton is the founder and CEO of Your Empowerment Solutions (YES) Institute, offering mathematics and science tutoring as well as a host of workshops for parents, teachers, and students. She is the author of Yes! You Can Help Your Child Achieve Academic Success, and Complete Chemistry for Caribbean High Schools. Contact her at (876) 564-1347; e-mail: ceo@yes-institute.com; or visit www.yes-institute.com, or www.khylton.com.