NPQ in Leading Literacy
Become an expert in developing literacy in your school.
- Develop as a specialist in literacy leadership.
- Learn to effectively support colleagues.
- Practical strategies to improve reading and writing outcomes.
- Access training rated outstanding by Ofsted.
Why choose the NPQLL with Teach First?
For over 20 years, Teach First has supported teachers and leaders to raise outcomes for pupils in disadvantaged communities.
We’re one of the largest NPQ providers in England and rated outstanding by Ofsted for our leadership training.
The NPQ in Leading Literacy is for teachers who lead, or aspire to lead, literacy across a school or phase. Whether you're supporting early reading or developing whole-school strategies, the NPQLL will help you:
- Build your expertise in literacy development, reading comprehension and writing instruction
- Lead with confidence, using evidence-informed approaches to improve literacy outcomes
- Support your colleagues to embed effective literacy practices across the curriculum
If you work in a school serving disadvantaged communities, you may also be eligible for free one-to-one coaching from an experienced former school leader.
Programme overview
Duration
12 months (+ assessment period)
Who is it for?
Teachers who have, or are aspiring to have, responsibility for leading literacy
Cost
Fully funded places available (subject to eligibility)
Self funded: £899 + VAT
Delivery
Blended learning: online modules, seminars, in-person conferences
Funding
DfE funding available (subject to eligibility)
Start date
November 2025
Your questions about the NPQ in Leading Literacy
- What will I learn on this programme?
You’ll explore the most effective ways to lead literacy across your school, from early reading to writing development. You’ll also learn how to support colleagues to improve their practice and embed literacy across the curriculum.
Modules include:
- Teaching
- Implementation
- Developing a Reading Culture
- Disciplinary Literacy
- Supporting Reading and Writing
- Professional Development
- Literacy Leadership
- Expert-led Conversations
- Practical Implementation
- Can I get a funded place?
You may be able to get your NPQ fully funded by the Department for Education, depending on your school or setting. You're likely eligible if you work in a state school in the top 50% for pupil premium or your school is on the DfE's RISE list.
If you would like to take the Leading Literacy (NPQLL) but do not meet the eligibility criteria for a DfE-funded place, CPD funding may be available through your local English Hub.
- What if I’m not eligible?
If you would like to take the Leading Literacy (NPQLL) but do not meet the eligibility criteria for a DfE-funded place, CPD funding may be available through your local English Hub.
You can also still apply and self-fund.
Cost for NPQ in Leading Literacy: £899 plus VAT- How do I apply for the NPQLL?
To apply, you’ll need:
- Full support from your school or organisation, confirmed through a written agreement
- A valid Teacher Reference Number (TRN)
Getting started is easy:
Register with the Department for Education, then complete your application with support from your chosen delivery partner.- How am I assessed?
To successfully complete the NPQ in Leading Literacy, you’ll need to engage with at least 90% of the course and pass a final, open-book assessment. This involves submitting a written response (up to 1,500 words) to a case study during an 8-day window at the end of the programme. You can refer back to course materials as you apply your learning to a realistic school scenario.
Can’t find what you’re looking for? View our full NPQ FAQs
Designed by experts. Delivered locally.
Our programme is built by in our in-house experts and delivered through trusted regional partners. Our delivery partners tailor the learning to your local context, ensuring it’s relevant, practical and impactful.
School leaders are overwhelmingly positive about the impact that training has on participants and their schools.
Ready to lead literacy in your school?
Registration opens on the 8 September 2025
Join a programme rated outstanding by Ofsted and trusted by thousands of teachers nationwide.
Take the next step in your leadership journey.