Strengthening professional development through evidence

The National Institute of Teaching (NIoT) has launched its free Evidence Portal, a tool designed to help school and trust leaders make evidence-informed decisions about professional development. Bringing together rigorous international research alongside insights from schools and trusts in England, the portal provides practical guidance on what makes professional learning effective and how to implement it successfully.
The Evidence Portal includes a range of strands such as coaching, collaboration, lesson study and inclusive professional learning. Each strand offers clear summaries of the evidence, alongside practical advice on design, delivery, and evaluation.
For leaders, this provides a structured way to:
- Review current professional development approaches
- Identify opportunities to strengthen impact
- Plan more effective, evidence-informed strategies
The portal also invites contributions from the sector, enabling leaders to share their experiences and help shape future development.
This is an ideal tool to help leaders reflect on how professional development is designed and delivered in their setting and how evidence can support stronger outcomes for staff and pupils.
Find out more about the Evidence Portal
Watch the explainer video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XLGx3SaNphY
Explore the Evidence Portal: evidenceportal.niot.org.uk
Read our Spotlight on Evidence article: NIoT Evidence Portal - strengthening professional development through evidence