Secondary Mastery Specialists

Become a Secondary Mastery Specialist and transform Maths education.

Are you passionate about deepening your understanding of mathematics teaching and leading positive change in your department? The Secondary Mastery Specialist Programme is an exciting opportunity for dedicated maths teachers to develop their practice, enhance student outcomes, and play a key role in shaping teaching for mastery in their school.

Why Join?

As a Secondary Mastery Specialist, you will:

Inspire students – Help them build a deep, connected understanding of maths, combining conceptual understanding with procedural fluency.
Create a positive maths culture – Support students in reasoning, problem-solving, and engaging in meaningful mathematical discussions.
Develop your teaching expertise – Learn best practices aligned with the NCETM’s Essence of Mathematics Teaching for Mastery.
Grow as a leader – Gain the skills to lead professional development in your school, working closely with colleagues to embed teaching for mastery.

Who Can Apply?

We’re looking for enthusiastic maths teachers with Qualified Teacher Status (QTS), working in state-funded secondary schools, with at least two years of teaching experience. If you have a strong commitment to developing both your own practice and your ability to support colleagues, this programme is for you!

What to Expect?

This two-year programme is designed to develop both classroom practice and leadership skills. Unlike previous years, there is no expectation to become a Local Leader of Mathematics Education—although this remains an option for the future. Instead, the focus is on embedding mastery approaches within your own department, working alongside your subject leader.

Training Structure

Year One includes 7.5 days of professional development, featuring:

5.5 days of central training events
2 days of in-school and hub-based development, including:

• Refining mastery approaches in your own classroom

• Collaborating with Cohort 11 peers on lesson and resource design

• Observing mastery teaching in both primary and secondary settings

In addition, you’ll undertake the Professional Development Lead Programme in Year 2, equipping you with the expertise to support and develop others effectively.

School Support & Commitment

To ensure maximum impact, participating schools must commit to supporting their Specialist. This includes:

The headteacher attending part of the autumn term launch event
The subject leader engaging in a Subject Leader Community (NCP26-15)