NPQH Early Headship Coaching Offer
Tailored support for new headteachers.
- Get confidential coaching from an experienced leader.
- Reflect, reset and lead with confidence.
- Practical guidance focused on your school’s particular circumstances.
- Access training rated outstanding by Ofsted.
Why choose the Early Headship Coaching Offer with Teach First?
Starting headship can be challenging – especially in your first few years. This programme offers the personalised support you need to thrive.
Whether you’re doing the NPQH with Teach First or another provider, this offer is available to you. You’ll get:
- Five personalised coaching sessions across 12 months
- A safe, confidential space to explore challenges and goals
- Tailored advice based on your school’s unique context
You’ll be matched with a trained coach – a former headteacher – who will guide you as you reflect, problem-solve and grow in your role.
You’ll also be part of a wider peer network of new headteachers facing similar challenges.
Programme overview
Duration
12 months
Who is it for?
New headteachers in their first five years of headship working in state-funded schools, who have completed, are currently completing or are applying for an NPQH
Cost
Fully funded places available (subject to eligibility)
Self funded: £800 + VAT
Delivery
One-to-one coaching and peer networking (no assessment or coursework)
Start date
Rolling (linked to your NPQH start, or standalone)
Your questions about the Early Headship Coaching Offer
- What will I learn on this programme?
You’ll receive structured support designed to help you succeed in your first years of headship.
What’s included:
- Five one-to-one coaching sessions with a trained Achievement Partner (a former headteacher)
- Flexible, confidential sessions focused on your personal goals and school context
- Peer networking opportunities to build connections beyond your school
- No assessment, marking or coursework – just personalised coaching
You can complete this support alongside your NPQH or as a standalone offer. It’s designed to complement the NPQ, helping you put learning into practice.
- 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.
- How do I apply for the Early Headship Coaching Offer?
You’re eligible for this fully funded support if you:
- Work in a state-funded school in England
- Are in your first five years of headship
- Have completed, are currently doing or are applying for an NPQH – with us or another DfE-approved provider
Getting started is easy:
Just register your interest, and we’ll be in touch with next steps once further details are confirmed by the DfE.
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.
Facilitators are highly skilled, and deftly adapt seminar and conference materials to meet participants’ individual needs and contexts.
Lead with confidence in your first years of headship
Get the personalised support you need to make a lasting impact on your school.