About ConnectED Hub
A Local Hub for Local Educators
We are delighted to welcome you to the ConnectED Hub, the Leigh Institute’s new commercial professional development offer.
Our Mission
Building Stronger Learning Communities
Here you will find a ‘one stop shop’ for professional development opportunities, drawing on the very best experience and expertise from across the region and beyond. By leveraging the expertise of local education professionals, we aim to enhance skills, inspire growth, and simplify the path to professional excellence, all whilst building stronger, more connected learning communities.
Locally Led – Training by Kent & SE London education professionals
Seamless CPD – Easy tracking and management of development
Inspiring Growth – Tools to elevate teaching standards
Future-Ready – Adapting to evolving education needs
Esther Cook
Director of The Leigh Institute
Faye McGill
Deputy Director of The Leigh Institute & Director of TGTSH
Polly Butterfield-Tracey
Deputy Director of The Leigh Institute & Head of KMT
ConnectED Contacts
Supporting Education For a Better World
Our aim is to help partner schools build staff-wide professional development pathways, drawing on the expertise of our four founding organisations.
Curriculum Hub offer and research-led content
• ECT Framework
• Appropriate Body
• NPQs
• Wider PD
• ITT recruitment and support
High quality delivery and one to one support, challenge and guidance
• Teaching for Mastery
• Specialist knowledge for
teaching Mathematics
• Maths and Leadership
• Professional development
and support
Teaching apprenticeships
Apprenticeships in: Business Administration; Property Maintenance Operative; Engineering; ICT Technician; Teaching Assistant; Roong; Teaching; Team Leader Supervisor
Supported routes into teaching and support through the ECF
• Schools Direct
• Salaried routes to teaching
• Non-salaried routes to
teaching
• PGCE
We work with experts locally and beyond to create clear, connected development pathways. These include digital, webinar, and in-person learning opportunities. From our Essentials digital training offer to leadership and teaching pathways, ConnectED Hub supports schools with high-quality, collaborative professional development.
Local Educators
Meet Some of the Local Expertise
What makes ConnectED Hub different is our focus on local talent. We provide a platform for experienced, vetted professionals in the education sector to offer their knowledge and services to schools and educators in the area.
Claire Grimes
Claire is an experienced English teacher, senior leader, and founder of "Teach. Lead. Learn," dedicated to improving teaching practices and student outcomes through evidence-informed professional development & research-driven education.
Tracy Kent
Tracy, a Co-Headteacher and Independent Consultant, specialises in Early Years, SEND, and Literacy, mentoring leaders, facilitating professional development, and serving as an external assessor and moderator for examination bodies.
Lisa Davis
Lisa Davis is an experienced senior leader and former headteacher, passionate about supporting others through collaboration, and committed to continuous professional growth, recently completing the ILM Level 7 Coaching and Mentoring qualification.
Charli Napier
Charli has 16 years of senior leadership experience across various secondary schools and 26 years as an English teacher. She holds an MA in Leadership and an NPQH and is a highly experienced coach, mentor, and facilitator, supporting educators at all levels.
Jamie Byham
Jamie, a Youth Mental Health First Aid instructor and Mindfulness trainer, delivers bespoke workshops. Trained in DBT and CBT, he understands staff challenges, providing practical strategies and resources that help schools embed learning and train others.
Sarah Tinker
Sarah is a committed leader, executive coach, and facilitator with 19 years of experience, using high-impact techniques to help senior leaders develop self-awareness, improve their behaviours, and drive sustainable change in education.
Sophie Clark
Sophie is a dedicated leader with 18 years of experience in senior leadership, specializing in school improvement, leadership development, and coaching, and has effectively delivered programs to enhance teaching, learning, and professional practice.
Jo Price
Jo has 25 years of experience across various sectors, including leading the UKAT Trust's £21 million project. Passionate about mental health, she developed the Amazing Minds mindfulness program and adult training courses to support wellbeing and resilience.