The NPQLTD is a 12-month Department for Education-accredited qualification for teachers leading teacher development. It combines face-to-face events, online study, and coaching, totaling 74 hours. Participants, typically middle leaders, learn to design professional development and receive support from mentors and coaches. Assessment includes formative tasks and a summative case study. Completing NPQLTD awards 40 Master's credits applicable to postgraduate education leadership degrees.
The National Professional Qualification for Leading Teacher Development (NPQLTD) is a 12-month, Department for Education-accredited qualification. It is for teachers who lead or aspire to lead the development of other teachers and combines face-to-face learning, online study and coaching.
Who is NPQLTD for?
NPQLTD is for teachers responsible for developing colleagues across a school, including trainees and early career teachers. Participants typically work at middle-leadership level and have leadership experience or aspirations.
What are the main programme details?
NPQLTD is underpinned by the national National Professional Qualification framework. The programme includes:
- Duration: 12 months.
- Face-to-face events: three days.
- Online learning: 34 hours.
- Coaching: five hours.
- Total learning time: 74 hours.
Across 12 months, 74 hours averages about 1.5 hours each week. Your actual weekly commitment will vary around events and assessments.
How is NPQLTD structured?
NPQLTD begins with an induction stage and continues through three development cycles. Each cycle includes online study, a face-to-face event, in-school coaching and a formative assessment task.
The development cycles are followed by a summative assessment. You can read the NPQLTD qualification specification for further details.
How is NPQLTD delivered?
NPQLTD uses a blended learning model. It includes three face-to-face events, webinars, coaching and online study through Best Practice Network’s Canvas virtual learning environment.
A national partner network supports local delivery. Face-to-face events take place at local venues, and you will be placed with a geographically convenient group, subject to partner allocations where relevant.
What will you learn?
NPQLTD content is aligned with the Department for Education’s NPQLTD framework. It covers areas such as designing and delivering effective professional development, implementation, culture and ethos.
The programme includes evidence-based guidance on what you need to learn and how to apply it. Read the NPQ Leading Teacher Development framework for more information.
What support will you receive?
You will receive support from a Leadership Mentor and an In-School Performance Coach (ISPC).
- Leadership Mentor: Your main point of contact provides advice and feedback, marks practice tasks and formative assessments, and supports your progress.
- In-School Performance Coach: A coach nominated by your school provides six planned coaching touchpoints to help you apply your learning in context.
Who can apply for NPQLTD?
To apply for NPQLTD, you need:
- Your school’s support.
- A Teacher Reference Number (TRN).
- Two years of teaching experience.
- Leadership experience or aspirations.
What should you do if you do not know or have a Teacher Reference Number?
Best Practice Network’s Teacher Reference Number Support Guide explains how to find your Teacher Reference Number and resolve login issues with the Teacher Services portal.
The guide also explains how to obtain a Teacher Reference Number if you have QTLS QTLS stands for Qualified Teacher Learning and Skills status, or request one if you are inside or outside England. It includes the required identification, official steps and contact details.
How is NPQLTD assessed?
You must meet the programme’s current course-engagement requirement. Check the Best Practice Network website for the current requirement.
You must also complete a summative case-study assessment of no more than 1,500 words within an eight-day window. Formative tasks and coaching help you prepare for this assessment.
When are NPQLTD intakes available?
Current NPQLTD intake dates are published on the Best Practice Network website.
How do you apply for NPQLTD?
- Register your interest in the programme. Check the Best Practice Network website for current intake availability.
- Make sure your school supports your application and have your Teacher Reference Number ready.
- Best Practice Network will guide you through the streamlined application process.
What can NPQLTD lead to?
Completing NPQLTD awards 40 Master’s credits, which can count towards postgraduate study. Examples include Liverpool Hope University’s (MA) in Leading in Education or (MBA) in Educational Leadership.