National Professional Qualifications (NPQs)
NPQs
National Professional Qualifications (NPQs) are a suite of Department for Education-accredited professional development programmes designed to support teachers and school leaders at all stages of their careers. Each NPQ is grounded in evidence and research, helping participants to strengthen their practice, build confidence, and lead with impact.
There are a range of NPQs available, including specialist qualifications (such as Leading Behaviour and Culture or Leading Literacy) and leadership qualifications (such as Senior Leadership or Headship). All NPQs are designed to develop the knowledge and skills that make the greatest difference in schools.
NPQ for SENCOs (NPQSENCO)
From September 2024, the NPQ for SENCOs (NPQSENCO) became the mandatory qualification for all newly appointed Special Educational Needs Coordinators. Replacing the NASENCO award, this nationally delivered programme focuses on leadership of SEND, high-quality teaching, and creating inclusive learning environments.
We are proud to be facilitators of the NPQSENCO programme in partnership with L.E.A.D. Teaching School Hub and Teach First. As experienced SEND professionals, we bring real-world insight and sector expertise to the delivery of this important qualification — helping to shape confident, skilled SENCOs ready to make a meaningful difference in their settings.
Specialist NPQs
NPQ for SENCos (NPQSENCO)
A new NPQ designed for new, existing and aspiring SENCOs and those who want to understand what underpins successful SEND leadership.
NPQ for Leading Teacher Development (NPQLTD)
Supporting the training and development of others.
NPQ for Leading Teaching (NPQLT)
Developing teachers who are subject leads or responsible for improving teaching practice in a subject or phase.
NPQ for Leading Behaviour and Culture (NPQLBC)
Developing teachers who have responsibilities for leading behaviour and culture.
NPQ for Leading Literacy (NPQLL)
Learn how to effectively teach and promote literacy across the whole school, year group, key stage or phase.
NPQ for Leading Primary Mathematics (NPQLPM)
The NPQ Leading Primary Maths is the newest programme released by the DfE. The programme is designed to support teachers with learning how to use mastery approaches to teach maths effectively in the classroom.
Leadership NPQs
Senior Leadership (NPQSL)
For leaders that are, or are aspiring to be, a senior leader with cross-school responsibilities:
National Professional Qualification – Headship (NPQH)
For leaders that are, or are aspiring to be, a headteacher or head of school with responsibility for leading a school:
National Professional Qualification – Executive Leadership (NPQEL)
For leaders that are, or are aspiring to be, an Executive Headteacher or MAT CEO role with responsibility for leading several schools.
National Professional Qualification – Early Years Leadership (NPQEY)
Develop expertise in leading high-quality early years education and care, as well as effective staff and organisational management.
To find out more about L.E.A.D. Teaching School Hub NPQs, click on the button below: