Staff Profile

Taking part in the National Professional Qualification for Leading Teacher Development has been one of the most enriching and impactful experiences of my professional career. The course was of exceptionally high quality, both in its content and delivery, and it has played a significant role in shaping my growth as an educational leader.

From the onset, I was impressed by how well-structured and thought-provoking the programme was. Each element of the course was clearly designed to challenge, support, and develop participants, and I found myself consistently engaged and inspired throughout. What stood out most to me were the local seminars. These sessions were a highlight of the programme and provided a dynamic and supportive space to explore ideas in depth. The facilitators were not only knowledgeable but brought a wealth of experience to the table, which made every seminar feel both grounded in practice and rich in insight. Their expertise and hearing about their personal experiences made a significant difference in how I processed and applied the course content.

Another aspect I found particularly valuable was the opportunity to connect with other professionals who were on the same journey. The sense of community and shared purpose was incredibly motivating. Being able to exchange experiences, challenges, and strategies with like-minded colleagues created a supportive network that extended well beyond the boundaries of the course itself.

One of the most transformative elements of the NPQLTD was the practical rehearsal activities. These pushed me out of my comfort zone in the best possible way. Engaging in these scenarios gave me the chance to practise vital conversations, coaching strategies, and leadership techniques in a safe but challenging environment. As a result, I feel more confident to navigate these situations. 

At my school, we use instructional coaching as the core approach to teacher development. The NPQLTD has significantly deepened my understanding of how to effectively diagnose teaching, the critical role of rehearsal in improving practice, and what truly impactful professional development looks like. During the course, I was promoted to the role of Assistant Head Teacher with some teacher development responsibilities. Thanks to the knowledge and confidence I gained through the NPQLTD, I felt well-prepared to take on this leadership position. I’m incredibly grateful to the programme providers for providing such a transformative and empowering experience.