Red Kite Alliance and The PTI Launch Secondary CPD Hub
Posted 14th July 2025
This academic year marks the launch of an exciting new partnership between Red Kite Alliance and The Professional Teaching Institute (PTI), establishing a PTI Secondary Hub to deliver tailored, subject-specific CPD for teachers across our network. The collaboration offers a broad range of development opportunities, including CPD days aligned with our schools’ needs, subject days for early career teachers, free online courses, and leadership development pathways.
So far this summer term, three of the seven planned CPD subject days have taken place, delivering impactful sessions for teachers of Modern Foreign Languages (MFL), Design and Technology (DT), and Religious Studies (RS). Each event has been shaped by the challenges and opportunities of teaching these subjects in today's classroom, with expert-led workshops and hands-on activities designed to develop practical skills, pedagogical insight, and confidence.
The MFL day, held in June, focused on strategies for preparing students for the new GCSE specification, conducting speaking assessments, and using AI tools creatively. Highlights included engaging sessions on cultural awareness and classroom games to promote language speaking, alongside practical tools such as SchoolAI and Voki. One participant noted, “AI workshop very useful… Great ideas to take away for promoting languages and cultural events.”
The Design and Technology day provided a deep dive into CAD tools, AI in design education, and links with primary schools and industry. Attendees praised the day for its hands-on approach and relevance. “Very well delivered, subject-specific and understanding of what DT teachers really need,” wrote one teacher. Among the top takeaways were integrating AI in projects, enhancing CAD delivery using platforms like Onshape and Tinkercad, and rethinking curriculum content for greater real-world application.
In Religious Studies, participants explored the worldviews approach, curriculum development, SEND inclusion, and exam technique. Charlotte's session on disciplinary literacy and Azaan’s oracy strategies were particularly well received. Feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with teachers describing the day as “engaging, inspiring and insightful.” Key takeaways included increased emphasis on oracy, embedding worldview thinking in KS3, and enhancing the use of real-life examples and debate in lessons.
With strong engagement and practical outcomes already emerging from the first three sessions, the Red Kite Alliance is proud of the impact this programme is having on teacher development and student learning.
Looking ahead, four more CPD subject days are scheduled for the coming academic year, continuing to build on this momentum. Teachers from across the alliance are encouraged to participate, share best practice, and tap into this unique opportunity to develop their subject expertise in a supportive and high-impact environment.
For more details on upcoming PTI CPD sessions and to explore available resources, please visit The PTI or contact Red Kite Alliance for further information.
Together, through collaboration and innovation, we are investing in our teachers, strengthening subject knowledge and enriching the classroom experience for students across all Red Kite Alliance schools.