The aims of the MTeach programme are to enable participants to: Pursue an interest in improving the quality of teaching and learning in an educational context, beginning with one's own professional practice, whether as a beginning or experienced educational practitioner Acquire advanced knowledge and skills in teaching and a deeper understanding of the teaching, learning and assessment cycle Obtain the knowledge and skills necessary to engage in critical, action-oriented inquiry at postgraduate level in order to generate personal theories of practice and to articulate the importance and significance of doing so for the improvement in the quality of one's practice Meet the demands of a rapidly changing educational and professional environment Keep abreast of theory and practice in teaching and learning and trends in continuing professional development internationally Seek promotion as a leading or expert teacher as one who is committed to lifelong learning.

As the programme places particular emphasis on practitioner knowledge and the enhancement of teaching, applicants should currently hold a teaching post at primary or secondary level. Candidates are usually required to have a good honours primary degree, minimum H2.2. Consideration will also be given to those who have appropriate access to a relevant teaching or training setting and who have an interest or an appropriate reason for attending. All MTeach students are strongly encouraged to identify a workplace advocate for the duration of their studies. The workplace advocate is an important "critical friend" to the MTeach student. He or she may have specialist expertise in an aspect of educational leadership, or a known special interest in the field of education. The workplace advocate will have sufficient confidence and authority to enable a supportive learning community for the candidate in their own teaching setting.