Frequently Asked Questions
Who is providing the funding for the visit?
The programme is funded by the Department for Children, Schools and Families (DCSF). HTI Merganser is a provider of the programme, using the DCSF funding to arrange your visit. These visits are not funded by the British Council, although they manage other TIPD visits, also funded by the DCSF.
What is the purpose of TIPD?
The aim of TIPD is to give teachers a brief insight into education systems abroad, to further their professional development and inspire new ideas for use in their own classrooms and across LAs. One of the key benefits is that by experiencing another education system individuals often have new insights into how things are done at home. Visits usually focus on a specific theme in relation to the education system.
Can I make links with a school whilst on my TIPD visit?
Yes – but remember that this is not the main purpose of the visit. The main purpose of the visit is to gain an insight into a foreign education system, and bring back new ideas. HTI Merganser will, however, provide information on how to take longer term links forward.
Can I choose the visit destination?
HTI Merganser’s team of experienced consultants will be responsible for selecting a host in a suitable destination, based on the chosen visit theme. The destination may not be confirmed to the group until up to 6 weeks before the visit: applying to the programme should not be based on a visit destination.
Can I adjust travel bookings to extend my stay, stop over en route, or include a family member?
No. The visit is a professional visit and should be treated as such. Groups must travel together and keep to the travel arrangements booked by HTI Merganser. DCSF funding is available specifically for professional TIPD visits and should not be used to enable a holiday at the same time.
What does the DCSF funding cover?
- Flights from a UK airport (groups may be asked to travel to London from anywhere in the country, although we try to fly groups out of regional airports where appropriate)
- Accommodation on a twin-share, bed and breakfast basis whilst in the destination country. Anyone requesting a single room will be charged a single supplement.
- Transport related to the professional programme whilst in the destination country
- Travel insurance
- Visas if the whole group require them.
What will I have to pay for?
- Travel to the departure airport within the UK, although some LAs fund this cost
- Lunch and dinner whilst on the visit
- Any travel unrelated to the professional programme
- A single supplement, should you request a single room.
Who is eligible?
The full list of who is eligible to take part in TIPD is available on the Global Gateway TIPD pages. Essentially, you must be teaching in a maintained school with at least a 50% teaching timetable, you must have been teaching for at least 2 years, and you must not have taken part in a TIPD visit in the last 2 years. Teaching assistants may also be eligible.
How do I apply?
Contact your LA Coordinator. If you are unsure who this is, contact HTI Merganser on 01454 629655 or tipd@merganser.co.uk and we will give you the relevant details.
