A new CPD training package to help secondary schools improve reading across the curriculum has been launched, with resources for both teachers and school leaders

The Department for Education has launched a new online CPD training package to support reading across the secondary curriculum. Developed in collaboration with secondary school teachers, teaching assistants and school leaders, the training is designed to be accessible, research-informed and practical, with the aim of strengthening reading provision for all students.

This training package responds to widespread recognition that all teachers – regardless of subject – play a vital role in developing students’ reading skills. It aligns with the DfE’s Reading Framework and incorporates evidence from recent research on reading development in adolescence.

The CPD is freely available and consists of:

·     Short videos (approximately one hour total viewing time)

·      A downloadable workbook and guidance for reflection and action planning

·      Two tailored strands: one for classroom practitioners and one for school leaders

The videos explore foundational concepts such as the Simple View of Reading, common reading profiles found in secondary classrooms, and seven key strategies for supporting reading within any subject area. These strategies include choosing appropriate curriculum texts, developing vocabulary, activating background knowledge, and checking comprehension.

Teachers are encouraged to complete the training individually or in groups. The structure allows for flexible delivery, making it suitable for staff meetings, INSET sessions, or personal professional development. Leaders are also provided with resources to support school-wide implementation and further training.

Call for early adopters

As part of the programme’s rollout, the Department is seeking schools to act as early adopters. These schools will have the opportunity to engage more deeply with the training materials and contribute to its continued development. Expressions of interest must be submitted by 19 May 2025.

Further information

·      The training videos can be accessed via the DfE YouTube channel.

·      The full guidance and workbook are available on the DfE website.

·      Feedback on the training can be submitted via the online form.

This initiative offers a timely and valuable opportunity for English departments—and all subject teams—to reflect on and enhance their approaches to supporting adolescent readers. NATE encourages members to explore the resources, share them with colleagues, and consider how they might be embedded in whole-school practice.