Leadership Programmes
We are pleased to be working in partnership with Ambition Institute to offer the full suite of the new National Professional Qualifications (NPQs).
FAQs
Take a look at the DfE Reformed NPQs information here.
Read responses to our most frequently asked questions below;
How are the NPQs structured?
They been designed to ensure they support all pupils to succeed in both mainstream and specialist settings, across the full age range. There is a particular focus on ‘learn how to’ and “learn that”.
Has the assessment process changed for the new NPQs?
Yes, the assessment process for NPQs has been refreshed to reduce the workload burden on participants while still providing an opportunity for them to apply their knowledge. To pass the courses, participants will need to engage with at least 90% of the course and pass one summative assessment. The summative assessment will take the form of a case study, which is a minimum of 2,000 words in length. This assessment will represent a likely situation to be faced by a participant at the relevant NPQ qualification level or role.
What is the Additional Support Offer for New Head Teachers?
This is for new head teachers who are in their first two years in role. This is a targeted package of support tailored to the needs of participants new to the role of headship when they are at their least experienced and most at risk of leaving the profession. This support may include structured, unassessed face to face support based on the best available evidence about what makes an effective head teacher. This may include but is not limited to group coaching and expert-led one to one conversations.
What is the duration of each of the NPQ courses?
The duration of the Leadership NPQs is 18 months.
The duration of the Specialist NPQs is 12 months, this includes the EHCO.
Each of the NPQs will then have one summative assessment which must be marked and moderated within the 3-month window.
How are the NPQs structured?
Please click the relevant link above for your preferred qualification to find out about the course structure on Ambition’s website.
What are the dates for the assessments?
Summative assessments must be delivered during three month windows and currently these are outlined to:
- Specialist NPQs: The assessment window starts at the end of the 12-month programme and runs for three months. During this time, you’ll be given an eight-day window to sit an ‘open book’ style assessment in which you respond to a short case study.
- Leadership NPQs: The assessment window starts at the end of the 18-month programme and runs for three months. During this time, you’ll be given an eight-day window to sit an ‘open book’ style assessment in which you respond to a short case study.
How long do I have to complete the assessment?
Participants are allowed an eight-calendar day window to provide a written response of a maximum of 2,000 words for the case study in an open book setting. Moderated outcomes will be communicated within three months of submission.
What is the Scholarship criteria for DfE funded training?
Please visit the funding section of the NPQ overview page – Leadership NPQs – Spencer Teaching School Hub
How do we apply?
Teachers and leaders can now apply through the DfE Portal and Spencer Teaching School Hub expression of interest form found on the NPQ Overview page.