Sustained CPD as an effective approach in the delivery of the incredible years teacher classroom management programme

The Incredible Years Teacher Classroom Management (IYTCM) programme aims to equip teachers with the strategies and skills necessary to promote socio-emotional child development. In Ireland, educational psychologists from the National Educational Psychological Service (NEPS) are involved in the delivery of the IYTCM programme training to primary school teachers. This study sought to ascertain experiences of the continuing professional development (CPD) offered to teachers by NEPS during IYTCM programme dissemination. A qualitative research design using semi-structured interviews was adopted. Data were collected from primary school teachers and educational psychologists. Findings indicate that the sustained CPD, facilitated by NEPS, during programme delivery, presents as an effective approach to teacher CPD and to educational psychology service delivery. The study highlights the importance and efficacy of customising programme delivery, co-constructing behaviour plans and facilitating sustained support. The evaluation considers implications of the findings and possible further developments for this model of working.