Astra Teaching School Hub Buckinghamshire

Dr Challoner’s Grammar School was re-accredited as the Teaching School Hub (TSH) for Buckinghamshire in 2024. Astra TSH is a system leader for a range of key national priorities which support the Golden Thread of teacher career development. These include:

• Initial Teacher Training (ITT)
• Appropriate Body Services (AB)
• Early Career Framework (ECF)
• National Professional Qualifications (NPQs)

Initial Teacher Training

Astra TSH works collaboratively with local ITT providers across Buckinghamshire, including our own Astra SCITT which is also based at DCGS. Astra SCITT works with Bath Spa University and our partner schools to provide excellent support and training for new entrants into the teaching profession, from primary through to A level. Further information on teacher training with Astra can be found here.

Appropriate Body and Early Career Framework (ECF)

Astra TSH provides Appropriate Body services for Early Career Teacher (ECT) induction across Buckinghamshire. Astra also facilitates the full induction ECF training programme for ECTs and Mentors in the region. Further information on Astra’s Appropriate Body services and ECF can be found here below.

National Professional Qualifications (NPQs)

In partnership with Best Practice Network, Astra TSH offers a range of NPQs for schools across Buckinghamshire. These qualifications, designed to support the professional development of teachers and school leaders at all levels, are widely recognised by the education sector.

Specialist NPQs - in Leading Teaching, Leading Teacher Development and Leading Behaviour and Culture

Leadership NPQs - in Senior Leadership, Special Educational Needs, Headship and Executive Leadership