Enhanced confidence, skills, knowledge and outcomes – the lasting impact of an NPQ
Ongoing professional development is the cornerstone of successful schools. A holistic commitment to continuous improvement and professional learning is at the centre of excellent practice - and where that approach is in place, the impact is tangible and measurable.
National Professional Qualifications (NPQs) provide the bedrock of CPD on which excellent practice is built. Bringing together the highest quality research and evidence-based practice, NPQs bridge the gap between theory and practice – and make a fundamental difference to the way in which change and improvement is implemented. This is the impact of an NPQ.
The most recent evaluation of the National Professional Qualifications reveals several key impact statistics.
The DfE 2023/24 evaluation of the NPQ programmes revealed:
- Participation: By 2023/24, 17.1% of the state school workforce had started a reformed NPQ.
- Skills and Knowledge: 85% of participants reported significant improvements in their leadership skills and knowledge
- Confidence: 78% of participants felt more confident in their roles after completing the NPQ
- Career Progression: 65% of participants noted increased aspirations and opportunities for career advancement
- School Impact: 70% of schools reported improvements in leadership and teaching practices
- Pupil Outcomes: 60% of schools observed positive changes in pupil outcomes as a result of enhanced teaching and leadership skills
Our Lead Provider, Teach First, has also conducted reviews into the impact of an NPQ across their national cohorts, highlighting the following outcomes:
- Achievement Rates: Teach First reported high achievement rates among their NPQ participants, with 90% completing their qualifications successfully
- Retention: Teach First has undertaken research to improve retention across NPQ levels, focusing on supporting participants in disadvantaged schools
- School Impact: Teach First's NPQ programmes have been particularly impactful in schools serving disadvantaged communities, with significant improvements in leadership and teaching practices
- Pupil Outcomes: Schools partnering with Teach First have seen notable improvements in pupil outcomes, particularly in disadvantaged areas
At Saffron Teaching School Hub, we’ve also measured the impact of our programmes – from quantitative to qualitative – and continue to be amazed at the wide-reach an NPQ can have on the school community. In our IMPACT Series, we explore this through a range of lenses: Programme Members, School Leaders and Facilitators.
- Facilitators' Perspective
Facilitators have seen significant professional growth and a deeper understanding of educational challenges. They value the opportunity to stay updated with evidence-informed practices and benefit from the opportunity to collaborate with expert colleagues.
- Programme Members' Perspective
Participants have experienced transformative growth in leadership skills and confidence. They have applied practical strategies learned through NPQs to benefit their schools.
- Headteachers' Perspective
Headteachers report enhanced leadership practices and improved teaching quality. The structured approach of NPQs has led to better pupil outcomes and a more dynamic educational environment.
Access our NPQ Impact Case Studies to find out more about the tangible benefits and impacts of an NPQ.
Apply now for our April 2025 cohort
How will an NPQ impact you?
Applications for our April 2025 cohort are now open - find out more about our NPQ programmes and complete our NPQ Application Form.
The closing date for applications is Friday 21 March.
Take your next step with Saffron.