New NPQs launch for schools across Hub communities

Yesterday, our hub communities’ next generation of school leaders attended an inspirational event to mark the beginning of their National Professional Qualification under the new arrangements. Aspirant leaders from across our localities gathered at Rogerthorpe Manor, near Pontefract, to meet their facilitators and fellow participants, and hear inspirational speakers on the topic of great leadership.

Participants were joined by strategic partners of the hubs, including Tom Banham, CEO of Hoyland Common Academy Trust, who opened the event and offered a formal welcome to all. He reminded his audience that the power to drive future school improvement lay with them.

George Panayiotou, CEO of Castleford Academy Trust spoke about “transforming education in the hub communities,” highlighting the importance of great leadership at all levels in providing a great education for all students. He cited the challenges created by the pandemic in widening the disadvantage gap and called upon participants to use their NPQ programme to create positive change for young people. He advised them that successful leadership is carried out with “humility, humour and hope.”

Zoe Bidmead, Associate Executive Principal at Delta Academies Trust and NPQH Programme Lead, inspired participants with her own leadership journey, reminding them about the challenges and the joy of being a teacher and school leader.

The event included an opportunity to meet facilitators and establish a learning community. Kerry Pulleyn, Director of Teaching School Hubs, commented that “there was a real buzz of excitement at our launch event, with many participants stating that they couldn’t wait to get started!”

We are recruiting for the next round of NPQ programmes which begin in February 2022.