Professional Learning and Development in Mantle of the Expert

PLD with Networks of Expertise

The Dramatic Inquiry Network Aoteaora is a not for profit Trust, formed in 2020 to support teacher networking and peer-peer support through workshops, cluster meetings and courses. You’ll see many of the DI Trust’s activities advertised on the newsfeed of this website. The DI Trust has is a Network of Expertise (NEX) funded by the Ministry of Education. Visit the website, or email dramaticinquirynz@gmail.com to connect with the Trust and its activities.

Connect with Dr Viv Aitken

The founder of this website, Viv enjoyed a 25 year career as a teacher, academic, researcher, and professional development provider with a specialism in Mantle of the Expert and Dramatic Inquiry.

Now retired from the paid workforce, Viv is still passionate about supporting teachers, and offers 1:1 ‘planning clinics’ over zoom for anyone needing advice or support. Contact Viv to discuss your needs – or just for a chat! vivienneaitken49@gmail.com 

You can also access Viv’s work through her free podcasts, and her books – available at this link.

Viv is an amazing facilitator and really helped me to step out of my comfort zone as a learner and educator.  My whole staff now uses this approach and it has increased engagement and motivation in all students, particularly those who were previously disengaged from our normal inquiry approach.  

Leslee Allan – Principal Kaurihohore School & founder of ‘Number Agents’

In 10 years of teaching, this was the most worthwhile professional development I’ve done.  Mantle of the Expert is now an integral part of my classroom program and one which has had an extremely positive impact on student learning and engagement … Viv’s enthusiasm for and knowledge of Mantle of the Expert needs to be taken advantage of by more teachers!

Renee Downey –  Classroom teacher / Senior Curriculum leader Otaika Valley School