Thread by @Inner_Drive

After a quick refreshment break (and many ideas exchanged), we are back for the #TandLSummit with @Samfr's talk: how to think about policy from an SLT perspective.

So, how is policy made?

Identifying a problem, talking to those involved (including teachers), discussing it then tweaking accordingly is how it SHOULD work, says Sam.
This works especially on issues with low media attention, where you have more space to think about it.

But that isn't always the case. Sometimes, you have a genuine problem but need to rush the policy out, or there isn't an actual issue but you want to make a statement asap. Sometimes, it's even "pure whim".

So, how do you know which policies to pay attention to?

"The more press coverage an education policy story gets, the less relevant it is for people actually working in schools", says Sam. Wait until a policy is real to start worrying about it.

There are many less-known, more open policies you can use to implement your own vision, and use creatively.

These include early years career framework, Covid catch up funds, Opportunity Areas, Teaching School Hubs... and many more.

But how can you actually influence policy as a teacher?

You can actually apply to join the government's teacher reference group. Sharing your views on Twitter is also very impactful. And some groups worth checking out include @ASCL_UK, @_TheFEA and @TeachFirst.