The International NPQLBC is a 12-month Department for Education-accredited qualification for teachers leading behaviour and culture in international schools. It includes virtual events, online learning, coaching, and assessments, focusing on behaviour management, school culture, and leadership. Participants receive mentorship, in-school coaching, and a certificate identical to the UK version. Applicants need teaching experience, leadership aspirations, English proficiency, a school sponsor, and a Teacher Reference Number.
The International National Professional Qualification for Leading Behaviour and Culture (NPQLBC) is a Department for Education-accredited qualification for teachers who lead, or aspire to lead, behaviour and pupil wellbeing. It focuses on building a positive, supportive culture for learning in international school contexts.
Who is the International NPQLBC for?
The International NPQLBC is suitable for anyone responsible for behaviour and culture across a team or phase. Typical applicants include:
- teachers
- heads of year
- pastoral leaders
- heads of department or subject leaders
Find further information on the International NPQLBC programme page.
How long does the International NPQLBC take?
The International NPQLBC lasts 12 months and includes:
- three virtual face-to-face events
- approximately 34 hours of online learning
- approximately five hours of coaching
- approximately 74 guided learning hours in total
What will you learn?
The International NPQLBC develops your expertise in areas mapped to the Department for Education National Professional Qualification framework. These areas include:
- establishing consistent expectations
- enabling good behaviour
- addressing complex behavioural needs
- building a whole-school culture
- professional development
- implementation
How is the programme structured?
The International NPQLBC has three development cycles. Each cycle includes a face-to-face event, an online course, practice activities and a formative assessment task.
You also complete in-school performance coaching. The programme concludes with an Impact Review and a summative case-study assessment.
Can you complete the programme online?
You can complete all International NPQLBC courses fully online, including the events. Some locations may also offer in-person face-to-face events hosted by partner schools.
What learning platform and support will you receive?
You access the International NPQLBC through Canvas, an interactive Virtual Learning Environment. You are supported by:
- an Online Leadership Mentor
- facilitators at face-to-face events
- an In-School Performance Coach nominated by your school
What does the Leadership Mentor do?
Your International NPQLBC Leadership Mentor is an experienced educator and your main point of contact. They provide feedback on your practice tasks and formative assessments and support your overall progress throughout the programme.
What does the In-School Performance Coach do?
Your In-School Performance Coach is nominated by your school. They hold planned coaching sessions to help you apply your learning, manage your workload and provide evidence of your impact.
You will typically have two to five coaching sessions lasting approximately 60 minutes each. The coaching culminates in an Impact Review involving you, your In-School Performance Coach and your Leadership Mentor.
How is the International NPQLBC assessed?
To pass the International NPQLBC, you must meet the current minimum engagement requirement and pass a summative case-study assessment. Check the International NPQLBC programme page for the current minimum engagement requirement.
The summative case study has a maximum length of 1,500 words and must be completed within an eight-day window.
Required programme elements include:
- the Leadership Development Record review
- face-to-face events
- online practice activities
- formative assessment tasks
- in-school coaching
Is the certificate the same as the UK certificate?
Yes. The National Professional Qualification certificates received by UK and international participants are identical. The qualification is in high demand among both UK and international schools.
Who can apply?
Applicants for the International NPQLBC typically need:
- two years of teaching experience
- leadership experience or aspirations
- proficiency in English
You also need a school sponsor, such as your headteacher, a member of the senior leadership team or your line manager, to confirm their support. The Department for Education requires this sponsor role, but it carries no financial obligation.
Do you need a Teacher Reference Number?
You need a Teacher Reference Number (TRN) for the International NPQLBC. A TRN uniquely identifies you within England’s education system and is required to complete mandatory National Professional Qualification surveys and access your Department for Education certificate after successfully completing the programme.
If you do not have a TRN, for example because you are based overseas, you will receive support to obtain one during registration. Read the International TRN guidance.
How do you apply?
- Discuss your professional goals with your headteacher or continuing professional development lead.
- Contact Best Practice Network if you have any questions. npq@bestpracticenet.co.uk
- Select the ‘Register now’ button on the International NPQLBC programme page and complete the application process.
What are the benefits for participants?
The International NPQLBC offers participants:
- a portable, highly sought-after qualification
- expertise in behaviour leadership
- practical study relevant to your context
- expert-led learning
- a guaranteed support model through to the final assessment
- a pathway to further postgraduate study through Master’s credits
What are the benefits for schools and learners?
The International NPQLBC can support schools and learners through:
- improved behaviour systems and culture
- better pupil engagement and wellbeing
- alignment with school improvement priorities
- regular progress updates for mentors and headteachers