One of the most effective ways of developing improved partnership working leading to better outcomes for young people is through joint continuing professional development (CPD). Staff benefit greatly from opportunities to train with colleagues from other disciplines and these opportunities help them to work effectively in multi-disciplinary teams.
At all levels, effective processes are required for identifying training needs leading to improved partnership working. Jointly delivered and received training are particularly effective. Development opportunities can include a variety of learning experiences such as shadowing a colleague from a different profession, joint observation, lectures and workshops and participating in special interest groups. Curriculum for Excellence presents an ideal opportunity for joint CPD sessions. In particular, teachers and allied health professionals might consider how allied health professionals can be involved in literacy and numeracy across the curriculum and supporting in the delivery of health and wellbeing outcomes.