NPQ Cohort 3B Leaders - Celebrating Success and Reflecting on Outcomes

We’re especially delighted to share that our NPQ Senior Leadership and NPQ Early Years Leadership programmes achieved a 100% pass rate.

This outstanding outcome reflects not only the dedication and resilience of our programme members, but also the unwavering support, expertise and commitment of our facilitators, who continue to set an exceptional standard.

Alongside celebrating assessment success, we’ve also taken a close look at the Cohort 3B Endpoint Survey results – and the outcomes are just as uplifting. The feedback paints a compelling picture of meaningful professional growth, impactful learning experiences and strong connections forged across schools and settings. Together, these results show the depth of commitment within the cohort and the strength of the Saffron NPQ community.

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Endpoint Survey Outcomes – Cohort 3B

Our latest National Professional Qualification (NPQ) endpoint survey results for Cohort 3B reveal a highly positive picture of programme impact, participant satisfaction, and leadership development across our suite of leadership qualifications. The findings highlight both strong performance and a number of constructive development areas identified by programme members.

The survey drew a 72% response rate, giving us a substantial and representative understanding of participants’ experiences.

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High Levels of Satisfaction Across Leadership Programmes

Programme members across Early Years Leadership, Senior Leadership, Headship and Executive Leadership expressed strong satisfaction with their NPQ experience. Many respondents described the training as high quality, relevant to their roles, and thoughtfully structured.

On the Headship NPQ, participants frequently rated their experience as “very satisfied,” noting the usefulness and depth of the content. The Senior Leadership NPQ received similarly positive feedback, with participants describing modules as “well‑resourced” and aligned with current school contexts.

One Headship participant shared:

“Great knowledge of research linked across the programme… The opportunities have been rooted in the current school and educational climate, which makes them very relevant.”

Confidence Growth and Professional Development

Learners across all NPQs reported significant growth in confidence and capability. Many described newfound assurance in leading teams, contributing to strategic discussions, and applying learning to their day‑to‑day leadership responsibilities.

One Senior Leadership participant said:

“I have attended and contributed to a number of SLT meetings where I feel my voice is heard and I have shown a good understanding of whole‑school matters.”

Several Headship participants noted that the programme helped illuminate aspects of the headteacher role that are not always visible from deputy‐level positions.

Seminar Facilitation and Peer Networks Praised

Seminars emerged as a major strength, with participants highlighting the quality of facilitation, the accessibility of learning, and the value of discussions with peers. Many reported that the sessions deepened their understanding and encouraged collaboration.

One participant commented:

“All seminar facilitators have been excellent. Superb organisation and the correct balance between independent work and group sessions.”

Another reflected on the benefits of in‑school visits:

“I found it very useful going to a school and seeing their practices. I gained many ideas that I am going to take back and implement.”

Strong peer connections were a recurring theme, especially in Headship and Senior Leadership programmes, where participants valued the opportunity to network with leaders from outside their immediate settings.

Positive Impact on Wellbeing and Retention

Many respondents indicated that their NPQ supported their professional wellbeing and helped them feel more secure and optimistic about their future leadership pathway. Participants also highlighted the personal value of coaching, particularly within the Executive Leadership NPQ.

“Receiving coaching has been an aspect I have valued greatly and found most useful.”

Areas for Improvement Identified by Participants

While feedback was overwhelmingly positive, participants also offered constructive reflections on how the experience could be strengthened further.

1. More Time for Discussion and Clarification

Some participants wished for greater opportunity to ask questions or consolidate understanding during seminars, particularly ahead of assessments.

2. Additional Content Requests

Several Senior Leadership participants suggested including a module on school budgeting and finance to better prepare future leaders for current sector challenges.

As a Delivery Partner, we are considering how we support our facilitators to demonstrate ‘Flexible Fidelity’ to the programme – enabling them to deliver the required framework content, while still being open and available to wider questions within sessions.

Cohort 3B’s outcomes reflect a committed community of leaders who have grown in confidence, strengthened their practice and brought meaningful learning back into their schools. The positive feedback also showcases the impact of high‑quality facilitation, supportive networks and engaging seminar experiences.

At the same time, participants have offered thoughtful suggestions that will help refine future delivery – such as creating more space for discussion, supporting facilitators to respond flexibly to questions, and considering additional content on areas like school finance.

As we celebrate these achievements, we remain focused on continually improving the NPQ experience.

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Saffron Teaching School Hub - National Professional Qualifications