The international NPQSL is an 18-month, DfE-accredited leadership programme for middle leaders in international schools, focusing on whole-school improvement. It requires two years' teaching experience, leadership skills, English proficiency, and a Teacher Reference Number. The course combines face-to-face events, online modules, and coaching, covering strategic leadership, school culture, teaching, curriculum, and governance. Participants receive mentor support and complete formative tasks, an Impact Review, and a Summative Assessment. Applications require a school sponsor.
The National Professional Qualification for Senior Leadership (NPQSL) for international schools is an 18-month, Department for Education (DfE)-accredited programme. It develops current middle leaders to drive whole-school improvement through structured learning, coaching and assessment tailored to cross-school responsibilities.
Who should apply
The international NPQSL is designed for current middle leaders working across whole-school priorities, including:
- Heads of departments or subjects.
- Pastoral and curriculum leaders.
- Leaders of school improvement.
- Heads of key stage.
What are the entry requirements
To apply for the international NPQSL, you need:
- Support from a sponsor at your school, such as your headteacher or a senior leader, who can confirm your application details.
- At least two years of teaching experience.
- Proven leadership experience.
- Proficiency in English.
- A Teacher Reference Number (TRN).
A TRN uniquely identifies you within England’s education system. You need it to complete mandatory NPQ surveys and access your DfE certificate after successfully completing the programme.
If you do not have a TRN, for example because you are based overseas, you will be supported to obtain one during registration. Read the international TRN guidance.
How the programme is delivered
The international NPQSL follows a repeating learning cycle:
- Attend a face-to-face event. You can attend remotely, or in person where a viable group is confirmed near you.
- Complete an online module with practical activities and a formative task for immediate application in your school.
- Take part in in-school performance coaching.
The programme concludes with an Impact Review and a Summative Assessment Case Study.
How much time you need to commit
The international NPQSL runs over 18 months and includes around 90 total learning hours. This comprises online study, dedicated coaching time and face-to-face elements.
What you will learn
The international NPQSL develops strategic insight and practical skills for senior leadership in international schools. You will learn about:
- Setting a clear vision.
- Cultivating a high-expectations culture.
- Leading teams to secure high-quality teaching.
- Using data effectively.
- Navigating diverse cultural and curricular contexts.
What the official NPQSL framework covers
The DfE framework specifies the knowledge, skills and behaviours that senior leaders develop. Its domains include:
- School culture.
- Teaching.
- Curriculum and assessment.
- Behaviour.
- Special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).
- Professional development.
- Organisational management.
- Implementation.
- Working in partnership.
- Governance and accountability.
How you will benefit
As an international NPQSL participant, you will refine your core leadership capabilities and broaden your whole-school impact. You can study flexibly through a purpose-built virtual learning environment and receive structured support aimed at helping you successfully complete the final assessment.
How your school will benefit
The international NPQSL equips leaders to establish and sustain strategic direction, improve teaching and learning, strengthen school-wide planning and maintain organisational cohesion. Regular mentor and headteacher updates align your development with your school’s priorities.
What support you will receive
You will be assigned a Leadership Performance Coach or Leadership Mentor to support your progress and development throughout the international NPQSL.
Your coach or mentor will challenge you and provide feedback on each Practice Activity and Formative Assessment Task (FAT). They will also conduct one-to-one coaching sessions throughout the programme.
How you will be assessed
During the international NPQSL, you will complete formative tasks embedded in each learning cycle. The programme culminates in an Impact Review and a Summative Assessment Case Study that evidence your leadership impact and learning.
How to apply
Use the “Register now” link on the international NPQSL course page to submit your application. Before applying, make sure your sponsor has confirmed their support and that you meet the stated eligibility criteria.