A School That Invests in You – At Every Stage of Your Career

Training & Professional Growth

At Hammersmith Academy, we believe that great schools are built by great people. That’s why we invest deeply in the development of our staff, offering outstanding training, clear progression pathways and a culture that encourages ambition. Whether you are just starting out or ready to take the next step in your career, you will find structured support, tailored opportunities and a genuine commitment to your long-term success.

Grow Your Career With Us

Our approach to professional development is rooted in one belief: when staff grow, students thrive.

We are proud to offer a wide-ranging programme that supports teachers, leaders and support staff alike.

National Professional Qualifications (NPQs)

We fully support colleagues pursuing NPQs across all pathways — including Senior Leadership, Leading Teaching, Pastoral Leadership and SENCO qualifications.
We help staff secure funding, provide time for study and ensure leaders are well supported throughout their training.

Personal CPD Budget

Every member of teaching and support staff can access up to £300 in dedicated CPD funding, approved through their Department Head and CPD Manager.

This ensures your development is personalised, relevant and meaningful.

Free National College Membership

All staff benefit from unlimited access to The National College’s library of professional development courses — available anytime, anywhere.

Whole-School CPD

Regular, high-quality training keeps colleagues at the forefront of educational practice, from curriculum development to pastoral care.

Recognition That Counts

We value loyalty and recognise excellence across the organisation through:

  • Loyalty Bonuses at 5, 7 and 10 years
  • Continuous Service Awards for long-serving support staff
  • Governors’ Praise & Recognition Scheme celebrating staff contributions

Early Career Teachers (ECT)

Starting your career can feel overwhelming – which is why our ECT induction is one of the most supportive and forward-thinking in London.

Pre-September Transition Programme (Up to 15 Paid Days)

If you join us as an ECT in September, you are invited to spend up to 15 fully paid days with us at the end of the summer term.

This allows you to:

  • Understand our routines, expectations and teaching culture
  • Meet your department and wider staff team
  • Build early relationships with students
  • Familiarise yourself with the building and resources
  • Observe lessons and see our teaching approaches in action
  • Ask questions freely in a low-pressure environment
  • Set up your classroom and plan with confidence

This early investment helps new colleagues settle quickly and begin September with confidence and clarity.

Your Full ECT Induction Programme

Once the academic year begins, ECTs benefit from:

  • Reduced timetable: 10% in Year 1, 5% in Year 2
  • Dedicated mentor providing weekly structured support and coaching
  • Induction tutor to guide progress and development
  • Training aligned to the ITTECF (Initial Teacher Training & Early Career Framework)
  • Regular progress reviews with supportive, achievable targets
  • Subject-specific coaching
  • Early access to NPQ pathways

Our aim is not simply to support ECTs — but to accelerate their growth and confidence as emerging professionals.

Our Personal Support Network

We ensure every new staff member – teaching or support – feels welcomed, supported and connected from the very beginning – The Buddy System.

From day one, you will be paired with a friendly, experienced colleague who will:

  • Offer informal, day-to-day support
  • Help you navigate the building and routines
  • Answer any questions you may feel unsure asking elsewhere
  • Provide a listening ear whenever you need it
  • Help you feel part of the HA community

Your buddy is part of a wider support structure that includes:

  • Buddy – friendly, informal support
  • Induction Mentor – expert teaching coach
  • Induction Tutor – oversight of your development
  • Department Team – subject specialists who share resources and expertise
  • Senior Leaders – approachable and accessible when needed

You will never feel like you’re navigating your early career alone.

Why Choose Hammersmith Academy for Your Career?

Whether you are beginning your teaching journey or advancing into leadership, Hammersmith Academy offers:

  • Investment in your professional development
  • Meaningful opportunities to grow and lead
  • A culture built on collaboration, care and ambition
  • Exceptional support structures at every level
  • A commitment to developing the next generation of outstanding educators and leaders

We don’t just want you to succeed — we want you to thrive and build a long, rewarding career with us.