Schools in Wales have six professional learning days during the school year, often called INSET days. These provide valuable time for teachers and other school staff to undertake training, work together and develop their practice to improve children’s learning and wellbeing.

Some training focuses on essential responsibilities, such as safeguarding and health and safety. Other sessions develop teaching approaches, curriculum planning and assessment, helping staff to meet the needs of all learners, including those with additional learning needs. Staff may attend workshops, learn from specialist trainers, share effective practice or work alongside colleagues from other schools.

Schools plan these days around their development priorities and national priorities for education in Wales. They also provide time to review pupils’ progress, consider educational research and strengthen the delivery of the Curriculum for Wales. The sixth day, originally introduced to support curriculum reform, is now a permanent part of the annual arrangements.

The dates for this year’s professional learning days are listed below. On these days, the school is closed to pupils while staff undertake professional learning and development.

Training Day Dates 2026-27

• Training Day 1 – Tuesday 1st September
• Training Day 2 – Wednesday 2nd September
• Training Day 3 – To be confirmed
• Training Day 4 – Monday 4th January
• Training Day 5 – Monday 19th July 2027
• Training Day 6 – Monday 20th July 2027