Developing Creative and Critical Educational Practitioners

Re-configurations of initial teacher education (ITE) are bringing about new roles and ways of working for both school-based and university teacher educators. These changes provide both a need and an opportunity to increase expertise in teacher development at all levels. This book encourages teacher educators to promote flexible and sustainable practice in their students, enabling them to flourish within an ever-changing educational environment. Research from the UK and US strongly indicates that a coherent theory-practice approach to teacher preparation is key. The book outlines what such a framework can look like, a rationale for it, and how it can work in practice for groups and individuals. It explores the notions of the reflexive teacher, creativity as a basis for practice, and criticality as a necessary underpinning for educators. The discussion draws on the research and experiences of teacher educators, student teachers and in-service teachers, from NQTs to Lead Practitioners and senior management. It proposes the foundational understanding for beginning teachers to join a community of practice based on scholarship, professionalism and ethical practice.