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Thom Brooks says that "worthless staff development programmes impact on my work far more than learning names" (Letters, September 14).

If staff development is for the pursuit of learning, understanding and training, contributing to personal growth and professional development, how can he define it as "worthless"?

Staff development requires us to continue learning through reflection on our practice. The onus is on the individual to seek out the conferences, seminars and other modes of staff development delivery that best suit his or her personal and professional needs.

It is all about investing time in one's own development, and this should be regarded as essential for all staff. Perhaps Brooks should offer his services to the staff development team at his university to show how it should be done!

Jacqui Macdonald
Head of staff development Institute of Education University of London