Embracing Flexibility
Key to Success in Teaching and Leading in Small Schools and Engaging in NPQ Participation
Case Study: Jessica Fox's Leadership Journey at Askwith Primary School
Jessica Fox, a dedicated class teacher and subject leader at Askwith Primary School, plays a pivotal role in the Senior Leadership Team. With responsibilities ranging from leading Key Stage 2 to spearheading the strategic development of phonics and English, Jessica's commitment extends to mentoring fellow educators and serving as the ITT Co-ordinator. Having been appointed as a Specialist Lead in Education for English, she supports schools across her Academy Trust.
Anticipating her future as a Headteacher, Jessica embarked on the National Professional Qualification in Leading Teaching (NPQLT) in February 2022. The goal was clear: to enhance her organisational management, governance, accountability, and policy implementation skills, progressing towards completing the NPQ in Headship and paving the way for a successful headship.
Experience with NPQLT: Participating in the NPQLT proved transformative for Jessica. The curriculum affirmed and challenged her teaching practices, delving into cognitive science to strengthen her understanding. Modules such as 'Subject and Curriculum' and 'How Pupils Learn' enriched her grasp of substantive and disciplinary knowledge, as well as retrieval practice. The course's high-quality, varied resources, including videos and articles, allowed for personalised, school-life-friendly self-directed study.
The well-structured program efficiently managed Jessica's time, with clear navigation of online resources and seminars. Frequent yet manageable seminars ensured engagement and a balance with professional responsibilities. Transitioning seamlessly to the NPQH, Jessica accessed kick-off materials online, demonstrating the program's adaptability to individual schedules.
'Come and Read’ session. An example of parental engagement in early reading – one aspect of how strong practices have been affirmed across the school curriculum.
Gains from NPQ Participation: Jessica's participation in the NPQLT yielded a deeper understanding of curriculum design, reinforcing principles of cognitive science. This newfound confidence translated into leadership at Askwith Primary School, contributing to an 'outstanding' Ofsted rating for the school's curriculum. Her positive experience affirmed her ability to balance professional roles and maintain a healthy work-life equilibrium, prompting her to continue her leadership journey with the NPQH.
Jessica Fox's journey exemplifies the efficacy of NPQ programs in fostering leadership growth, instilling confidence, and empowering educators for impactful roles within their schools and beyond.