As the Professional Update debate hots up in Scotland, England’s Department for Education this week threw its support behind an independent College of Teaching for teachers south of the border.

The aim of the new body will be to allow teachers to set their own high standards for members. The DfE’s Nicky Morgan and David Laws also made a commitment to set up a fund for quality professional development through a network of teaching schools.

But what was the view on Twitter? Some warned of the need to keep government interference out of the college. Leon Cych, who tweets as @eyebeams, said: “Of course, if the government gets involved in a new College of Teaching it will be the kiss of death.”

Others welcomed the official backing. “College of Teaching and a fund for research-based learning.This has the potential to be transformational,” said headteacher @DamianMcBeath.

Despite this, reservations remained. @nickhassey pointed out: “If this is a body that approves the CPD provided by others then it’s a regulator.”

But David Weston, who tweets as @informed_edu and is chief executive of the Teacher Development Trust, replied: “The detail of how it works will be up to teachers, Nick. Get involved. Get your voice heard.” Helen Ward

Keep up to date with the latest education chat online by following @TESScotland on Twitter