Early Years teacher achieves leadership qualification

Chetwynde School kindergarten teacher Laura Roberts is leading the way in early years education after becoming one of the first in the area to achieve the new National Professional Qualification in Early Years Leadership (NPQEYL).

An experienced teacher with over 25 years in early years – 17 of them at Chetwynde – Laura successfully completed the 18-month programme through Cumbria Education Trust, combining online learning with face-to-face sessions in Carlisle.

The NPQEYL is a landmark development in professional training for early years leaders, offering a government-funded, evidence-based framework to strengthen leadership in nurseries, schools and childcare settings across England.

Laura said she was motivated by the opportunity to contribute to the bigger picture in early years education while bringing fresh insights back into her classroom.

“Everything starts with us in early years and we have to get it right for our pupils,” she said. “This qualification gave me the chance to work alongside other passionate professionals, explore the challenges we face and develop new ways of working to improve learning experiences for children. It has also been really valuable to share practice with colleagues across the Trust through our professional networks.”

Head of Chetwynde School Steve Jefferson praised her commitment and achievement.

“Laura has balanced her studies with work and family life and we are delighted that she is the first in South Cumbria Multi-Academy Trust to gain this prestigious qualification,” he said. “Her expertise strengthens leadership skills at Chetwynde and across our Trust, supporting our goal of providing the very best start for every child.”

The achievement comes at a pivotal time for the sector. Research shows that high-quality professional development not only enhances outcomes for children but also supports staff retention – vital as early years education faces national recruitment and retention challenges.

Chetwynde School is holding an Open Evening on Thursday 2nd October from 5pm to 7pm, where members of the public are welcome to visit to see its nursery, primary and secondary provision and meet staff and pupils.

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