When we talk about Leadership and Development, it’s easy to picture formal CPD: a course, a certificate, a training day with a workbook and a follow-up quiz. Useful? Absolutely. But it’s not the whole story.
Some of the most impactful professional learning I’ve experienced (and witnessed) happens in a different way: through networks, people coming together to share what’s working, ask for help, compare notes, and swap practical solutions. It’s CPD that’s grounded in real classrooms and real labs, shaped by the day-to-day realities of the role.
A brilliant reminder from the York Technicians Network
This week I had the pleasure of attending a York Technicians Network meeting, organised by local technicians, where we heard from Professor Sir John Holman about the Gatsby Good Practical Science benchmarks and the crucial role that hands-on practical work plays in schools.
The report recognises something we all know instinctively: practical science is essential. It strengthens understanding, develops valuable skills and attitudes, and brings science to life in a way that no worksheet ever can. The benchmarks offer a clear set of expectations for what “good” practical science looks like, and they also shine a light on something that often gets overlooked: the vital contribution of technical staff, and the need for technicians to have regular access to meaningful CPD.
And here’s the leadership and development link: professional growth isn’t always about being “taught” something. Sometimes it’s about being in the room (or the call) where good practice is being discussed openly, where challenges are shared honestly, and where you leave with one new idea that makes next week easier, safer, or better for learners.
Why networks are powerful professional learning
Being part of a technician network is a brilliant way to:
- share expertise and “tried-and-tested” approaches
- troubleshoot challenges with people who understand the role
- swap ideas for practical work, prep routines, storage, systems, and safety
- learn about updates, guidance and expectations (without it feeling overwhelming)
- build confidence, and feel less isolated
It’s also a welcoming space. You can ask the “small” questions, bring the messy problems, and share the quick wins. And that is highly valuable professional learning.
No local network? No problem.
If you don’t have a local network nearby, or getting out of school is difficult, STEM Learning hosts remote network meetings each term. These sessions give you the chance to hear from technicians across different regions and settings, gather fresh ideas, and pick up practical tips that could make your work easier and more enjoyable.
If you’ve never joined one before, consider this your nudge. You don’t need to be “an expert” to attend, you just need to be curious, and willing to share and learn with others.
If you can’t make an in-person meetup, the Technicians group on the STEM Community is a brilliant space to connect with other school and college technicians, swap practical tips, ask questions, and share what’s working in your prep room.
Could you be the person who fires one up?
Here’s a question to sit with: Are you a member of a professional network? If yes, what’s the one thing it gives you that you’d struggle to get elsewhere? If not, could you be the person who starts one in your area?
That might sound like a big step, but networks don’t have to be complicated. A simple termly meet-up (even virtual), a WhatsApp group for quick questions, or a shared space to swap resources can make a real difference, not just for you, but for practical science provision across multiple schools.
If you’re thinking about setting up your own network, this guide is a great place to start:
Over to you
Leadership and development isn’t only about the next course you take, it’s also about the communities you build, the conversations you contribute to, and the knowledge you share.
So, tell us in the comments:
Are you part of a technician (or wider STEM) network? What makes it valuable?
If you’re not, what would help you join or start one?
Let’s keep practical science strong, and make sure technicians have the connection, recognition, and professional learning opportunities they deserve.