NPQ in Executive Leadership
Lead across schools with clarity and purpose.
- Develop the skills to lead a multi-school organisation.
- Build sustainable systems for long-term impact.
- Connect with other trust and school leaders across the country.
- Access training rated outstanding by Ofsted.
Why choose the NPQEL with Teach First?
The NPQ in Executive Leadership is designed for senior leaders responsible for multiple schools. Whether you lead a trust or oversee a group of schools, this programme will help you:
- Set and sustain a clear strategic direction
- Build systems that support collaboration and continuous improvement
- Lead with confidence across diverse teams and contexts
You’ll also build a national network of executive leaders and benefit from insight, support and fresh perspectives.
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
18 months (+ assessment period)
Who is it for?
Executive headteachers, MAT CEOs or those aspiring to lead multiple schools
Cost
Fully funded places available (subject to eligibility)
Self funded: £3,890 + VAT
Delivery
Blended learning: online modules, online seminars, in-person conferences
Start date
November 2025
Your questions about the NPQ in Executive Leadership
- What will I learn on this programme?
You’ll explore the unique challenges of leading at trust or group level – from aligning vision and culture to managing people, partnerships and resources across multiple schools.
Modules include:
- School/trust culture
- Implementation
- Governance and accountability
- Organisational management
- Behaviour
- Teaching
- Curriculum and assessment
- Additional special educational needs and disabilities
- Professional development
- Working in partnership
You'll complete a practical improvement project that focuses on a real challenge within your organisation.
- 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 Executive Leadership: £3,890 + VAT- How do I apply for the NPQEL?
To apply, you’ll need:
- A valid Teacher Reference Number (TRN)
- Full support from your organisation (confirmed in writing)
This programme is for:
- Executive headteachers
- Multi-academy trust (MAT) or school trust CEOs
- Aspiring system leaders with responsibility across several schools
Getting started is easy:
Register with the Department for Education and complete your application with support from your chosen delivery partner.- How am I assessed?
To successfully complete the NPQ in Executive Leadership, 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 leadership scenario across schools.
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.
Leaders at Teach First use their NPQs to tackle the barriers to educational equality in the schools that they work with.
Ready to lead at executive level?
Join a programme trusted by leaders nationwide and rated outstanding by Ofsted.
Step confidently into executive leadership.