The concept of group teaching allows good, open-minded teachers to do more, better. But it is more than that. By working together, teachers learn from each other, by observation and through coaching. They also provide the key benefits of group learning – peer support and a feeling of being invested in and valued. And that investment pays off; retention rates are higher when people are taught together.

Group teaching is a safe environment in which teachers are given opportunities to try new things out or to run only a part of a practice. By training up the next generation of teachers you will eventually be able to teach more ringers through them. That is a much better model than opening up your practice to lots of learners – which usually results in burn-out.

The formation of teaching groups depends on strong pre-existing ringing relationships. It’s nothing to do with geography or drawing lines on maps. Conversations are driven by a desire to do something better by doing something different, along with an understanding that by pooling resources and specialising they can do more, better. It is less stressful – teachers cover for each other, sharing the burden and not having to do everything.

The groups develop over time and unexpected things can happen which means what actually develops is different to the original idea. Often this has can have positive consequences.

Generate an ethos early on that teaching is a normal part of ringing, and create lots of opportunities for people to help and try things out. The enthusiastic ones will form the next generation of teachers – sometimes surprisingly quickly. Group teaching is not just about new or young ringers. It is about everyone and gives better opportunities to advanced or elite ringers, such as quarter peals and advanced practices.

ART supports and encourages groups of teachers who regularly teach together at ART Teaching Centres and Hubs. Find out more about who they are and what they do.