Celebrating Professional Learning: Limes Farm's NPQ Journey

At Limes Farm Infant School and Nursery, part of the Epping Forest Schools Partnership Trust, professional learning is more than a CPD offer, it is a fundamental part of the school's culture. Guided by their vision that everyone should "Belong, Learn and Enjoy", the school has embedded leadership development and continuous improvement at the heart of its practice.

Leading by Example

Headteacher Sami Taylor is a passionate advocate for National Professional Qualifications (NPQs), leading by example through her own completion of both the NPQ in Leading Behaviour and Culture (NPQLBC) and the NPQ for Executive Leadership (NPQEL). Sami is now undertaking her NPQ for Special Educational Needs Co-ordinators (NPQSENCO) and is due to complete her assessment in May 2027.

Reflecting on the role of professional learning in school improvement, Sami explains:

"For me, true leadership isn't about standing in the spotlight, it's about helping everyone else shine. I genuinely believe the best thing a leader can do is give their team the opportunity, professional development and confidence to grow."

An exceptional teacher and highly respected leader, Sami's commitment to continual professional development exemplifies the culture of learning and improvement she has helped to build across the school.

A Whole-School Commitment to Development

Since the introduction of the reformed NPQ framework, Limes Farm has had multiple programme members participating in almost every cohort, demonstrating a sustained commitment to developing leadership capacity across the school. From Early Years and SEND leadership to specialist and executive pathways, colleagues have continually invested in their professional growth, ensuring that expertise and evidence-informed practice remain at the heart of school improvement.

This commitment is rooted in a belief that investing in people has the greatest impact:

"When you develop the team around you, everyone wins, and honestly, there's nothing more rewarding than watching someone step up and succeed."

Limes Farm's engagement with NPQs demonstrates a sustained investment in its people:

At least one NPQ participant in almost every cohort since the launch of reformed programmes in 2021
Staff engaged across leadership, SEND and specialist pathways
NPQ achievements proudly celebrated on the school's website
Professional learning recognised as a key driver of school improvement

The school showcases qualifications including NPQ Early Years Leadership, NPQ Senior Leadership, NPQ Leading Behaviour and Culture and NPQ Leading Teacher Development, demonstrating a clear commitment to developing expertise and leadership capacity across the school.

The Value of the Programme

For Sami, the impact of the NPQ programmes extends beyond individual qualifications.

"These courses provided incredible value that we otherwise wouldn't have been able to afford. The facilitators were fantastic, and navigating the Brightspace platform and resources was completely seamless."

Her reflections highlight not only the quality of the programmes themselves, but also the accessibility and practical support that enables school leaders and teachers to engage fully in their professional learning.

Sharing Success and Looking Ahead

One of the things that stands out most about Limes Farm is its willingness to celebrate professional learning publicly. By sharing staff achievements and development journeys, the school is helping to inspire others and demonstrate the impact that sustained professional learning can have on a school community.

Sami is keen to recognise those who have embraced these opportunities:

"I'm truly grateful for this opportunity, as well as very proud of all of my staff for taking the time to complete these NPQs. I am also thankful for all of the facilitators within the Saffron Teaching School Hub."

Applications Now Open for Cohort 6

Applications for Cohort 6 beginning in November 26 are now open:

Saffron Teaching School Hub – National Professional Qualifications

Whether your school is developing aspiring leaders, strengthening middle leadership, supporting specialist expertise or building executive capacity, professional learning has the power to transform both individuals and organisations. As Limes Farm demonstrates, when schools invest in developing their people, the impact is felt across the whole community.

Share your professional learning journey with us, celebrate your successes, and join hundreds of colleagues who are developing their leadership through Saffron Teaching School Hub.