At OAK Multi Academy Trust, we’re proud to support the lives of our pupils and students through our core values of Opportunity, Achievement and Kindness. As we continue to grow our family of schools, we celebrate those who are leading innovation and excellence in teaching and learning across our Trust.
Overdale Infant and Junior Schools are delighted to have been recognised as a Steplab Hub School since 2024–25 — the first and only Primary Steplab Hub in the Midlands. This achievement reflects their commitment to high-quality, research-informed professional development through Instructional Coaching.
The programme has been led by Helen Lisseman, Trust Teaching and Learning Lead, and Vesna Knezevic, Assistant Headteacher (and Deputy from January 2026) at Overdale Infant School. Their shared vision to strengthen teaching and learning across the Trust has had a transformative impact on classroom practice and pupil outcomes.
“We don’t profess to be perfect, but we are proud to share our journey and successes to help others develop their own high-impact professional development programmes,”
said Helen Lisseman.
Sharing Expertise Through Hub Days
Each term, Overdale opens its doors to visiting school and trust leaders keen to explore how effective professional development can drive lasting improvement. Visitors can see deliberate practice and coaching in action, visit lessons, and connect with other PD leads through reflection and discussion.
The next Steplab Hub Day will be held on Tuesday 4 November, with further dates on Wednesday 28 January and Tuesday 28 April at Overdale Junior School.
“The most beneficial aspect was observing the coaching conversation – it was inspirational!”
— Jenny Stafford, Headteacher, Richard Lee Primary School
To find out more or book a place, please sign up here or visit the Steplab website.