As professionals, teachers and leaders are committed to continuous growth, recognising its importance in creating impactful learning environments. When teachers and leaders are empowered to grow and excel, the positive impact on children and young people is significant. Investing in their professional development not only enhances teaching practice but also enriches the educational experience for all. This is why the Australian Institute for Teaching and School Leadership (AITSL) exists: to define, elevate and support quality teaching and leadership, because when teachers thrive, learners grow.
Supporting Teachers and Leaders Through AITSL’s Standards
AITSL supports the professional growth of teachers and leaders through the Australian Professional Standards for Teachers (Teacher Standards), the Australian Professional Standards for Middle Leaders (Middle Leader Standards) and the Australian Professional Standard for Principals (Principal Standard). These national Standards establish a common language for quality teaching and leadership, guiding teachers and leaders at every stage of their careers. Tim Bullard, AITSL’s Chief Executive Officer, emphasises the significance of these Standards: “The Standards are foundational in shaping what effective teaching looks like and informing the supports that teachers and leaders need to thrive.”
This year, AITSL is conducting a phased review of the Teacher Standards and the Principal Standard, a process initiated by Education Ministers to examine how they work in practice today and explore whether they remain relevant and evidence-informed for the future. The review places teachers and leaders at the centre, providing multiple opportunities to recognise and reflect on the expertise of the wider education community. AITSL encourages all teachers and leaders, partners, and stakeholders to participate to ensure the review reflects the realities of teaching and leadership today and into the future.
Characteristics of High-Quality Professional Learning
High-quality professional learning is essential for strengthening teaching and leadership. AITSL’s Spotlight on High-Quality Professional Learning outlines that effective professional development is purposeful, collaborative, evidence-informed, and directly connected to classroom practice. This approach is vital as Australia’s teachers and leaders navigate increasingly complex environments.
AITSL’s High-Quality Professional Learning cycle serves as a practical model for teachers and leaders engaged in continuous improvement and reflective growth in their day-to-day practice. It emphasises the importance of the relevance of the professional learning to the current circumstances and the power of collaborative practice, ensuring that professional learning experiences are tailored and impactful. Mr Bullard highlights, “Professional learning is not just about building skills, it’s about building confidence, consistency and connection across the profession. That investment in meaningful professional development has a real positive effect because you create stronger teaching practices, a community of learning and relevance to real-life situations, which leads to improved outcomes for learners.” Access the High-Quality Professional Learning Cycle toolkit here.
Leadership’s Role in Professional Growth
Leaders play a crucial role in shaping a positive professional learning culture within their schools. AITSL provides resources and frameworks designed to support leaders in their professional growth while also creating conducive conditions for effective learning amongst their teams.
Strong leadership not only influences the professional development of teachers but also the overall learning environment within schools. AITSL’s resources empower leaders to build their own capabilities while creating an environment where teachers can engage in a community that fosters and celebrates continuous growth through professional learning. Mr Bullard emphasises this point: “Leadership is integral to creating an environment where professional learning is valued and fostered, ensuring that teachers have the time and support to engage, leading to teachers feeling supported and valued.”
Conclusion
AITSL’s commitment to professional learning and the review of the Teacher Standards and the Principal Standard reflects a deep belief in the value of quality teaching and leadership for every child and young person in Australia. As a practical partner to teachers and leaders, AITSL is focused on ensuring the frameworks that guide the profession remain contemporary and fit for purpose. That work is strongest when it’s collaborative. “Together, we can build a stronger educational system that prioritises and supports the professional growth of our teachers and leaders, ensuring that every child and young person has access to high-quality education,” says Mr Bullard.
The review of the Teacher Standards takes place from May 2026 to February 2027. The review of the Principal Standard takes place from September 2026 to May 2027. Readers interested in providing feedback can find more information on the AITSL website.
Source: Australian Institute for Teaching and School Leadership (AITSL)