Fast track teachers

Fast track teaching is a development programme to help talented teachers progress faster into leadership positions. The goal is to take on such a position within five years. This could be in the classroom, a management role or in another field of education.

Fast track was launched in 2000 and there are currently about 600 people on the programme. It is funded and run by the DfES.

The programme consists of an individually tailored personal development plan, events, conferences, courses and support networks. Participants are tutored and guided by a fast track mentor and an area coordinator. The personal development plan is structured in consultation with the mentor, the coordinator and the head teacher and usually has an objective with a wider school focus. This could be an aspect of the curriculum or the school within its community.

Fast track provides support for up to five years. Fast track teachers receive an additional recruitment and retention allowance of around £2,000 a year on top of their salary.

To apply, teachers need to be registered with the General Teaching Council, with qualified teacher status in any subject. They also need to be a graduate with usually at least a 2:1 degree.

Useful website links:

Fast track teaching
The programme's website with information for teachers who want to join fast track or find out more about the programme.

Fast track for teachers
TeacherNet page with an overview of the fast track programme.

Fast track - what is it?
Most important questions about the programme answered by Teacher Magazine.