NPQ FAQs
This section provides answers to frequently asked questions about our NPQ programmes.
Application
- What should I check before starting an application?
Before applying, check whether your school is part of one of our delivery partners (a selection of teaching school hubs and multi-academy trusts working with us to deliver our NPQs).
If it is, then once you have registered with the Department for Education (DfE), your delivery partner will be in touch with you directly to complete your application.
Before applying, get your headteacher or CPD lead’s agreement to:
- fund the cost of the programme if your school is not eligible for DfE funding, or you are eligible but are not awarded a funded space
- arrange cover for live training sessions (where possible these will be arranged out of school hours)
- cover any travel expenses for any in-person training sessions
- What information do I need to hand when completing the registration form?
You'll need:
- Your TRN (Teacher Reference Number)
- Your School URN (Unique Reference Number) or organisation's Ofsted URN
Find your Teacher Reference Number if you've forgotten it.
- What happens after I register?
After you register with Teach First, we’ll match you with a delivery partner who will contact you to confirm your place and next steps. Our aim is to contact you within 5 working days.
- What if my school isn’t partnered with a delivery partner?
If your school isn’t partnered with a delivery partner, we’ll work with you to identify a suitable option. Some applicants may be supported through alternative routes.
Eligibility
- Can I apply for the NPQ if I am based in a grammar, independent or international school?
Our delivery partners can support applications from grammar, independent and international schools.
When applying, you should ensure you are able to meet any in-person requirements for the programme. We therefore recommend you request this information directly from your delivery partner.
- Can I apply for an NPQ if I am currently not based in a school?
While the design and delivery of our programme is centred on teachers and leaders working in schools and other educational settings, we are aware that individuals not currently working in schools may also wish to join the programme.
This is possible but there are elements of the course that will be more relevant and accessible if you are able to implement some practice in school. Prior experience of working in a school or educational setting will be a consideration at application screening.
- Can I apply for an NPQ if I don’t have qualified teacher status (QTS)?
Qualified Teacher Status is not a requirement to be eligible for an NPQ, but you must have a Teacher Reference Number. This can be provided by GOV.UK for those that require a reminder or without QTS. This should be done well in advance of the application deadline, to make sure you have your TRN and are able to register before applications close.
- Can I apply if I am self-employed?
Yes, you can apply for an NPQ if you’re self-employed and have suitable experience for the programme you’re applying to. However, you would not be eligible for a funded place, so you would need to self-fund your place. Prices for self-funded places can be found on each NPQ page.
- Can I apply if I live outside the UK?
You may be able to apply, but DfE funding is only available for eligible applicants working in state-funded schools in England. If applying from outside England, you’ll need to self-fund and ensure you can meet any in-person requirements. Your delivery partner will confirm eligibility and options.
Funding
- How does funding work?
DfE funding is available for most teachers and leaders working in state-funded schools in England, subject to eligibility criteria and funding availability. Funding covers the programme fee; schools are responsible for any associated costs such as travel or cover.
Check the latest eligibility guidance and the DfE will tell you if you’re eligible for funding.
- How much does an NPQ cost if you’re self-funding?
Fees vary by programme. Please see the individual NPQ pages for current prices and details on payment options.
- Who is eligible for DfE funding?
Typically, teachers and leaders working in state-funded schools and settings in England are eligible. Specific criteria may vary by programme and cohort. Please review the latest guidance and confirm with your delivery partner.
- Will I need to pay if I don’t complete the programme?
Requirements and any charges for withdrawal or non-completion can vary. Please check your offer letter and your delivery partner’s terms before you start the programme.
Events and Delivery Partners
- Where can I find out about events?
Event details are managed by delivery partners. Your delivery partner will share relevant information once your application is confirmed.
- What if my school doesn’t work with a delivery partner?
If your school isn’t partnered with a delivery partner, we will work with you to identify a suitable option. Some applicants may be supported through alternative routes.
Programme content
- What will I learn?
Each NPQ is built around evidence-based modules aligned to the DfE frameworks. You’ll develop practical knowledge and skills tailored to your role, with a focus on improving outcomes for pupils.
- How long does it take?
Most NPQs take around 12 to 18 months, depending on the programme and delivery schedule.
- How is it delivered?
Training is delivered by our trusted regional delivery partners through a mix of flexible online learning, live seminars and in-person events local to your area.
- What qualification will I receive?
On completion, you’ll receive a nationally recognised, DfE-accredited National Professional Qualification (NPQ) certificate for your chosen programme.
After applying
- When will I be contacted?
After you register with Teach First, we’ll match you with a delivery partner who will contact you to confirm your place and next steps. Our aim is to contact you within 5 working days.
- What happens next?
When you’re matched, your delivery partner will be in touch with next steps. They’ll also share your training schedule and access details, and support you throughout the programme, including onboarding and assessment preparation.
- What if I don’t hear back?
If you haven’t heard anything within 5 working days of registering, please contact us so we can check your application and ensure it’s being processed correctly.