What is NPQLT?
The National Professional Qualification for Leading Teaching (NPQLT) equips you to lead teaching in a subject, year group, key stage or phase. It blends face-to-face events, online study, webinars and coaching. bestpracticenet.co.uk
Who is NPQLT for?
Teachers who have—or aspire to have—responsibilities for leading teaching (e.g., phase leaders, key stage leaders, heads of department). bestpracticenet.co.uk
Key facts at a glance
Course length: 12 months
Total guided learning: 74 hours
Online learning: 34 hours
Face-to-face events: 3
Coaching: 5 hours
How is the programme delivered?
A blended model combining:
3 face-to-face events delivered locally via BPN’s national partner network
Online learning and live webinars via Canvas
In-school performance coaching (5 hours total) bestpracticenet.co.uk
What will I learn?
Content is sequenced across three development cycles and covers:
Teaching foundations and principles (short course)
Professional learning
Leading teaching: classroom practice, adaptive teaching, assessment
Building culture and ethos
You’ll complete practice activities and a formative assessment task in each cycle. bestpracticenet.co.uk
How am I assessed?
A single case-study scenario summative assessment
8-day window to submit a written response (maximum 1,500 words)
You must engage with 90% of course elements (LDR review, face-to-face events, online practice activities, formative assessment tasks, and in-school coaching). bestpracticenet.co.uk
What support will I receive?
Leadership Mentor: your main point of contact, providing advice and feedback throughout the programme.
In-School Performance Coach (ISPC): nominated by your school; supports your progress through six planned coaching sessions and the final impact review. bestpracticenet.co.uk
Where will my face-to-face sessions be?
At local venues via BPN’s national delivery partner network (Teaching School Hubs, MATs, and others). Allocation is to a convenient local group, subject to viability. bestpracticenet.co.uk
When are the intakes?
The current page invites registrations for the November 2025 cohort. bestpracticenet.co.uk+1
What are the entry requirements?
You’ll need:
Support from your headteacher/organisation (DfE requirement)
A Teacher Reference Number (TRN)
At least 2 years’ teaching experience
Leadership aspiration/experience
Applicants typically also hold QTS, QTLS, a Level 5+ qualification (any subject), or an international equivalent. An in-school performance coach must be identified. bestpracticenet.co.uk+1
I can’t find my TRN — what should I do?
See the TRN Support Guide (updated 01.07.25) for how to locate or request your TRN, including routes for QTLS holders and those outside England. bestpracticenet.co.uk
Which virtual learning environment is used?
Canvas (BPN’s VLE), used for multimedia content, peer communities and expert feedback. bestpracticenet.co.uk
How do I apply?
Register your interest for the November 2025 cohort via the NPQLT page.
Before applying, discuss the commitment with your head/CPD lead.
Have your TRN and in-school performance coach details ready. bestpracticenet.co.uk+1