NPQ in Headship
Step up and lead your school with confidence.
- Develop the skills to lead a whole school.
- Deliver lasting change for pupils and staff.
- Access tailored support if you're new to headship.
- Access training rated outstanding by Ofsted.
Why choose the NPQH with Teach First?
For over 20 years, Teach First has supported school leaders to raise outcomes in disadvantaged communities. We’re one of England’s largest NPQ providers and rated outstanding by Ofsted.
The NPQ in Headship is designed for current and aspiring headteachers. Whether you're taking on your first headship or aiming to strengthen your leadership, this programme will help you:
- Build the confidence and expertise to lead a school
- Develop and sustain a clear strategic vision
- Lead school-wide improvement with lasting impact
If you’re a new headteacher, you’ll also have access to free additional face-to-face coaching from an experienced former head. This unassessed support is tailored to help you succeed in your first year of headship.
If you work in a school serving disadvantaged communities, you may also be eligible for free one-to-one coaching alongside the programme.
Programme overview
Duration
18 months (+ assessment period)
New headteachers can extend by up to 6 months
Who is it for?
Aspiring or current headteachers and heads of school with responsibility for leading a school
Cost
Limited fully funded places available
Self funded: £1885 + VAT
Delivery
Blended learning: online modules, online seminars, in-person conferences
Start date
November 2025
Your questions about the NPQ in Headship
- What will I learn on this programme?
You’ll explore the key challenges and responsibilities of headship – from setting school culture to leading curriculum, managing staff development and driving improvement.
Modules include:
- School/trust culture
- Implementation
- Governance and accountability
- Organisational management
- Behaviour
- Teaching
- Curriculum and assessment
- Additional special education needs and disabilities
- Professional development
- Working in partnership
You’ll complete a practical cycle where you plan or lead a strategic improvement in your school.
- 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.
- What if I’m not eligible?
You can still apply and self-fund.
Cost for NPQ in Headship: £1,885 + VAT- How do I apply for the NPQH?
To apply, you’ll need:
- A valid Teacher Reference Number (TRN)
- Full support from your school or organisation (confirmed in writing)
This programme is suitable for:
- Headteachers and heads of school
- Senior leaders preparing to step into headship
If you’re new to headship, you’ll also receive free additional support to help you succeed in your first year.
Getting started is easy:
Register with the Department for Education, then complete your application with help from your chosen delivery partner.- How am I assessed?
To successfully complete the NPQ in Headship, 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.
Teach First’s flexible approach to the timings of assessments, seminars and conferences supports participants in managing their time.
Ready to lead your school?
Join a programme rated outstanding by Ofsted and trusted by thousands of teachers nationwide.
Take the next step in your leadership journey.