The School Leader Programme with NPQSL is an 18-month dual-award leadership development combining NPQSL and a Level 5 Apprenticeship. It offers 60 Master's credits, CMI membership eligibility, and is designed for current or aspiring senior school leaders. The blended learning includes face-to-face events, online study, coaching, and practice-based tasks. Assessment involves a portfolio, case study, and professional discussion. Funding may come from the Apprenticeship Levy or government co-investment.
The School Leader Programme with National Professional Qualification for Senior Leadership (NPQSL) is an 18-month, dual-award programme for current or aspiring senior leaders. It combines NPQSL with the Level 5 Operations/Departmental Manager Apprenticeship and applies practice-based leadership learning in your school.
What qualifications and credits can you gain?
The programme maps the Department for Education’s NPQSL to the Level 5 Operations/Departmental Manager Apprenticeship. You earn both qualifications through the programme.
You can also earn 60 Master’s credits that may be used towards a Master of Arts (MA) in Educational Leadership at the University of Chester. You may also be eligible to become a member of the Chartered Management Institute (CMI).
Who can apply?
The School Leader Programme with NPQSL is designed for current or aspiring senior leaders who have responsibilities across their school. This typically includes leaders who contribute to strategic and operational priorities and work through middle leaders to secure excellent outcomes for every pupil.
To apply, you need:
- Support from your organisation, such as sign-off from your headteacher or chair of governors.
- A Teacher Reference Number.
- At least two years of teaching experience.
- Leadership experience or an aspiration to move into leadership.
If you are unsure whether you are eligible, the Best Practice Network team can support your application.
Do you need English and maths qualifications?
If you are over 18, you are automatically exempt from Level 2 Functional Skills in English and maths. However, you must complete short initial assessments in English and maths as a mandatory part of onboarding.
You can find supporting information in the programme webinar slides.
How is the programme delivered?
The programme uses blended learning to develop and embed leadership skills. It includes:
- Four local, face-to-face events led by experienced facilitators.
- Structured online study and multimedia resources through Canvas.
- Webinars.
- Monthly coaching.
- Engagement with research-informed school practice.
This approach combines local, in-person facilitation with online learning and practice-based activities in your school.
How much off-the-job training is required?
Off-the-job training (OTJT) is paid learning time completed during your normal working hours. It must develop new knowledge, skills and behaviours beyond your usual duties.
For a full-time role, off-the-job training typically amounts to six hours each week. It is built into the curriculum, with support from your Apprenticeship Performance Coach and Apprenticeship Mentor.
Who supports you during the programme?
You will have an Apprenticeship Performance Coach and an in-setting Apprenticeship Mentor. You will also receive support from local facilitators and peer networks through face-to-face events and online learning.
How is the programme assessed?
The assessment process takes place across roughly 18 to 21 months. It includes:
- A Gateway or Impact Review.
- An End-Point Assessment completed by an independent assessor.
- A presentation and professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio.
- The NPQSL Summative Assessment Task, consisting of an unseen case study and a 2,500-word submission.
Defined engagement thresholds apply, and resit opportunities are available.
What are the programme costs and funding options?
The programme may be funded through an employer’s Apprenticeship Levy. Government co-investment may be available to employers that do not pay the levy.
Check the School Leader Programme with NPQSL page for current costs, funding arrangements and employer contributions.
What is the Apprenticeship Levy?
The Apprenticeship Levy creates funding that eligible employers can use for apprenticeship training. Most state-maintained schools and trusts contribute and can use their Apprenticeship Service account to fund places.
Check the programme page for the current Apprenticeship Levy thresholds and contribution details.
What are the benefits beyond the qualifications?
The programme provides extended leadership training, one-to-one coaching, cross-sector insights and practice-based tasks that embed learning in your role. It also offers eligibility for professional recognition through Chartered Management Institute membership and Master’s credits towards further study.
How do you apply?
To apply, use the “Apply Now” option on the programme page. The Best Practice Network team can also guide your employer through setting up an Apprenticeship Service account if needed.
Where can you find more information?
The programme page includes further information about NPQSL. It also states that Best Practice Network’s provision is rated “Exceptional” by the Department for Education’s external quality assurance agent, with performance against national metrics available to view.
A 30-minute introductory webinar with questions and answers is also available through the programme page. It covers who the programme is for, what you will learn, how it is delivered, its benefits and Apprenticeship Levy funding options.
You can also download the programme webinar slides.