As a result of the project, we wanted to develop teachers' coaching skills to support the process of self-directed learner development and teamwork in the classroom, and learn about the practical experiences of other schools. Teaching in front of the class is turning into teacher-supervised learning, for this the teacher must develop coaching skills, be able to create an environment suitable for collaborative learning, and apply the principles of mentoring when guiding students. We set the goal that the leading teachers, participating as a joint school team, will undergo in-service training on creating a collaborative classroom, different learning strategies and student guidance, and will exchange experiences with teachers from other countries. Simultaneously with the acquisition of new knowledge and learning strategies in the training program, teachers can jointly plan the necessary further development activities to be implemented in the school. After the course, the teachers share training materials and organize internal trainings to spread new strategies. The project contributes to the formation of a collaborative school culture and develops teachers' coaching skills to support the formation of a self-directed learner.
Kuressaare Nooruse Kool is the largest school in Saaremaa, operating as a primary school from autumn 2021. Nooruse Kool is the successor of Kuressaare Gymnasium, with ~750 students and ~65 teachers in the school. One of the goals of the school's development plan 2021-2025 is to develop a collaborative school culture. The results of the studies of Tallinn University and the school's evaluation report have highlighted the need to develop teachers' readiness and skills for collaboration. Another important bottleneck, which according to research is common to all Estonian schools - teachers' lack of skills to support the development of a self-directed learner. Student-supportive guidance requires a change in teachers' mindset towards a more participatory learning model, from authoritarianism towards partnership and mentorship. Nooruse Kool has conducted trainings for the development of cross-subject integration, collaboration of teachers and the implementation of the mentoring mind-set. In order to implement new ideas, competent leading teachers are needed who expand the knowledge and experience acquired in the course and initiate follow-up activities that deepen the school's culture of collaboration.