Together We Thrive: The Power of Collaboration Across Teaching School Hubs

Since their launch in 2021, Teaching School Hubs (TSHs) have become a driving force behind teacher development and school improvement across England. With 87 hubs now working in partnership with schools, trusts, and local authorities, the vision is clear: to ensure every teacher and leader receives high-quality, evidence-informed support throughout their career.

At Saffron Teaching School Hub, we’re proud to serve over 266 schools across Braintree, Chelmsford, Epping Forest, Harlow and Uttlesford. From Initial Teacher Training (ITT) through to the Early Career Training Programme (ECTP) and National Professional Qualifications (NPQs), we’re here to support educators at every stage of their journey.

Why Collegiate Networks Matter

We believe in the power of working together. As educationalist Robert John Meehan wisely said:

“The most valuable resource that all teachers have is each other. Without collaboration, our growth is limited to our own perspectives.”

This ethos drives our partnerships with other Teaching School Hubs – locally, regionally, and nationally – creating a vibrant network of shared expertise, mutual support, and collective impact.

Through our NPQ Executive Leadership consortium, we partner with Bright Futures, Leicester & Leicestershire, One Cumbria, Cambridgeshire & Peterborough and Red Kite Teaching School Hubs. This model gives participants access to a broader range of contexts, high-quality facilitators, and a rich professional network that enhances learning and leadership development.

Regionally, we’re active members of the Eastern Region Teaching School Hubs group, working alongside Alban, Chafford Hundred, Chiltern, Inspiration, Julian and Unity Teaching School Hubs. Together, we support ITT through mentor training, trainee conferences, and recruitment events – ensuring new teachers are well-prepared and well-supported from day one.

Local Partnerships That Make a Difference

We are committed to working closely with Essex Local Authority and engage regularly with cluster groups of headteachers through organisations like ASHE (Association of Secondary Headteachers in Essex) and EPHA (Essex Primary Headteachers’ Association. These relationships help us share timely messages, launch initiatives, and promote opportunities that respond to local needs and priorities.

Our collaboration as a Lead Partner with Mid Essex ITT, West Essex SCITT and CTSN SCITT is central to our ITT work. Together, we:

Find high-quality placements for trainees
Identify excellent school practice for ITAPs
Connect providers with expert educators to strengthen course content and delivery

We’re also proud to work with a raft of specialist DfE-funded hubs including the New Vision English Hub, Matrix Maths Hub, Venn Essex Maths Hub, Greater Essex Music Hub and REACHout Early Years Stronger Practice Hub, and with the Essex Research School, aligning expertise and co-ordinating improvement across the region. These partnerships amplify opportunities for schools and ensure that CPD is accessible, relevant, and impactful.

Robust, Evidence-Based Development Through Trusted Partnerships

We deliver a full suite of NPQs in partnership with Teach First and the National Institute of Teaching (NIoT). These programmes are research-informed, flexible, and designed to support educators to lead with confidence and clarity. To date, over 500 teachers and leaders across our schools have completed an NPQ, with many progressing in their careers as a result.

A Connected Network for System-Wide Impact

The Department for Education and Teaching School Hubs Council have praised the collaborative model for its ability to:

Improve teacher retention and career progression
Strengthen system leadership
Share best practices across regions
Build capacity to meet local needs effectively

Together, we are not just stronger – we are better. Our connected network of schools, hubs, and partners is greater than the sum of its parts, driving meaningful improvement and lasting impact across the region and helping to shape a more resilient, responsive, and ambitious education system.

A Call to Action for School Leaders

We know that great teaching changes lives. That’s why we’re inviting school leaders across Essex and beyond to work with us –to develop your staff, strengthen your settings, and be part of a network that’s making a real difference.

Whether you're looking to:

Support new teachers
Develop future leaders
Enhance inclusive practice
Build a culture of evidence-informed teaching

…we’re here to help.

Let’s collaborate to create the schools our pupils deserve. Get in touch and explore how Saffron Teaching School Hub can support your journey.