The NPQLT is a 12-month blended learning programme for teachers leading or aspiring to lead teaching roles. It includes face-to-face events, online study, webinars, and in-school coaching, totaling 74 guided hours. Participants learn teaching principles, professional learning, leadership, and culture building. Assessment involves a written case study. Applicants need support from their headteacher, a Teacher Reference Number, two years' teaching experience, leadership aspiration, and an In-School Performance Coach.
The National Professional Qualification for Leading Teaching (NPQLT) is a 12-month programme for teachers who lead, or aspire to lead, teaching in a subject, year group, key stage or phase. It combines face-to-face events, online study, webinars and in-school coaching.
Who is NPQLT for?
NPQLT is for teachers who have, or aspire to have, responsibility for leading teaching. This includes phase leaders, key stage leaders and heads of department.
How long does NPQLT take?
The NPQLT programme takes 12 months and includes:
- Total guided learning: 74 hours
- Online learning: 34 hours
- Face-to-face events: three
- In-school performance coaching: five hours in total
How is NPQLT delivered?
NPQLT uses a blended learning model combining:
- Three face-to-face events delivered locally through Best Practice Network’s national delivery partner network.
- Online learning and live webinars through Canvas.
- Five hours of in-school performance coaching.
Canvas is Best Practice Network’s virtual learning environment. It provides multimedia content, peer communities and expert feedback.
What will you learn?
NPQLT content is sequenced across three development cycles. It covers:
- Teaching foundations and principles through a short course.
- Professional learning.
- Leading teaching, including classroom practice, adaptive teaching and assessment.
- Building culture and ethos.
You complete practice activities and a formative assessment task during each development cycle. You can also read the NPQLT qualification specification.
How is NPQLT assessed?
NPQLT has one summative assessment based on a case-study scenario. You have an eight-day window to submit a written response of no more than 1,500 words.
You must meet the current minimum engagement requirement across the LDR review LDR most commonly stands for Leadership Development Record or Leadership Development Requirement, face-to-face events, online practice activities, formative assessment tasks and in-school coaching. Check the Best Practice Network website for the current required percentage.
Further assessment information is available in the NPQLT qualification specification.
What support will you receive?
Your Leadership Mentor is your main point of contact. They provide advice and feedback throughout the programme.
Your school nominates an In-School Performance Coach (ISPC). The coach supports your progress through six planned coaching sessions and a final impact review, with five coaching hours provided in total.
Where are the face-to-face events held?
Face-to-face events are held at local venues through Best Practice Network’s national delivery partner network. This includes Teaching School Hubs, multi-academy trusts and other partners.
You are allocated to a convenient local group, subject to the viability of that group.
Who can apply?
To apply for NPQLT, you need:
- Support from your headteacher or organisation, as required by the Department for Education.
- A Teacher Reference Number (TRN).
- At least two years’ teaching experience.
- Leadership experience or an aspiration to lead.
- An identified In-School Performance Coach.
Applicants also typically hold Qualified Teacher Status (QTS), Qualified Teacher Learning and Skills (QTLS), a Level 5 or higher qualification in any subject, or an international equivalent.
How to find or request your Teacher Reference Number
If you cannot find your Teacher Reference Number (TRN), use the TRN Support Guide. It explains how to locate or request your TRN, including the routes available to QTLS holders and people outside England.
How to apply for NPQLT
- Check the NPQLT page for the current cohort start date and register your interest.
- Discuss the programme commitment with your headteacher or continuing professional development lead.
- Have your Teacher Reference Number and your In-School Performance Coach’s details ready.