Spotlight on Success: How NPQ Leading Primary Maths Transformed One Leader’s Practice

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As a first year mathematics lead, Jasmine joined the NPQLPM with a clear goal: to grow from a skilled classroom practitioner into a strategic subject leader shaping whole school improvement. The NPQ offered exactly what she needed – high quality research, evidence-informed guidance, and the chance to collaborate with experienced peers in a supportive professional community.  

Building Strategic, Evidence Led Mathematics Leadership 

The NPQLPM, developed by the DfE to help leaders embed mastery approaches, emphasises effective curriculum design, a culture of high expectations, and deep understanding of how pupils learn mathematics.  

For Jasmine, the programme proved transformational. A key area of impact was her deepened understanding of mathematics anxiety – how emotional responses to maths can obstruct working memory and block learning. This new insight shaped whole school culture change at Helena Romanes: 

• Implementing low stakes retrieval practice
• Prioritising supportive learning environments
• Strengthening teacher confidence in identifying and reducing anxiety triggers

She also spearheaded a school-wide rollout of the Concrete Pictorial Abstract (CPA) approach. Importantly, this included Key Stage 2, helping dismantle the misconception that manipulatives are “only for younger children” and ensuring older pupils also benefit from concrete and visual representations. The result? A more inclusive, consistent maths curriculum that supports struggling learners while deepening challenge for higher attainers.  

A Nationally Recognised, High Impact Programme 

Across England, the NPQLPM has been highlighted as a crucial lever for improving primary mathematics leadership, especially in the context of persistent attainment gaps identified in KS2 outcomes. Teach First reports that disadvantaged pupils continue to make the least progress nationally in maths - evidence of the urgent need for strong leadership and consistent mastery informed practice in primary schools.  

The programme draws on national expertise, including NCETM, the Maths Anxiety Research Group, and NRICH, ensuring leaders engage with the most uptodate evidence on maths pedagogy and leadership.  

Celebrating a 100% Pass Rate at Saffron TSH 

Saffron Teaching School Hub is delighted to report a 100% pass rate for our NPQLPM programme - an achievement that reflects: 

• The dedication of Programme Members like Jasmine
• High quality facilitation by NCETM Professional Development Leads, Nicola Morgan-Soane and Kerrie McGivern
• A robust programme design and coherent assessment preparation

Nationally, NPQs continue to demonstrate strong outcomes. The DfE’s most recent NPQ statistics (across all NPQs) report pass rates consistently above 93% in the latest published year.  

Our local 100% pass rate places Saffron TSH at the leading edge of NPQ delivery, demonstrating the strength of our professional learning community and the commitment of leaders across our region. 

The Saffron TSH Difference 

Jasmine highlighted the exceptional support she received from Saffron Teaching School Hub:

• Clear, manageable deadlines
• Seminars that encouraged participation, reflection and connection
• Access to peers facing similar challenges, creating a strong sense of professional belonging

Jasmine's advice to prospective applicants? 

“Do it! It was the best decision I made... it gave me a leadership manual exactly when I needed it most.” 

Inspiring the Next Leaders of Primary Maths 

Jasmine’s journey is a powerful example of the impact the NPQLPM can have on: 

• School culture
• Staff capability
• Pupil confidence
• Long term curriculum coherence

Her work exemplifies the purpose of the NPQLPM; to equip leaders to embed mastery approaches, reduce maths anxiety, implement inclusive practice, and ensure every child develops positive attitudes and strong foundations in mathematics. 

Ready to Lead the Future of Primary Mathematics? 

If Jasmine’s story has inspired you, now is the perfect time to take the next step in your own leadership journey. 

Register your interest for the next NPQ Leading Primary Maths cohort with Saffron Teaching School Hub and join a thriving community of evidence-informed, ambitious, and supportive maths leaders. 

Take your next step with Saffron.