New NPQ Funding Announced for Autumn 2026 – Supporting the Next Generation of Leaders
Across our region, National Professional Qualifications (NPQs) continue to have a transformative impact – strengthening leadership, improving teaching, and ultimately enhancing outcomes for pupils. Colleagues engaging in NPQs through Saffron Teaching School Hub consistently report increased confidence, stronger professional knowledge, and tangible improvements in school practice.
The Department for Education (DfE) has now confirmed the funding arrangements for Cohort 6 NPQs, starting in Autumn 2026, offering significant opportunities for schools to invest in leadership development.
Fully funded NPQs for all schools
The following NPQs will be fully funded for all eligible schools and settings:
This provides a valuable opportunity for schools to develop leadership capacity at multiple levels, aligned with school improvement priorities.
Scholarship funding for additional NPQs
Scholarship funding will also be available to eligible schools for a wider suite of programmes:
- Specialist NPQs: Leading Behaviour & Culture, Leading Literacy, Leading Primary Maths, Leading Teaching, Leading Teacher Development
- Leadership NPQ: Executive Leadership
These funded places are targeted towards schools meeting eligibility criteria, including those serving higher levels of disadvantage.
Early Headship Coaching Offer
Alongside this, the DfE continues to fund the Early Headship Coaching Offer, providing additional support for new headteachers.
Funding will be available where participants are:
- In their first five years of headship in a state-funded school or 16–19 setting, and
- Currently undertaking, or have completed, the NPQ for Headship
This offer provides structured, expert coaching to support headteachers in the crucial early stages of their role, strengthening leadership effectiveness and decision-making.
Important information
- Funding is limited – eligibility does not necessarily guarantee a funded place
- Early Expressions of Interest are strongly encouraged
Key dates
- DfE application portal opens: 23 June 2026
- Programme start: Autumn 2026
Take your next step with Saffron – register your interest now
Now is the time to plan ahead and invest in the development of your staff and leadership team.
Register your interest in an NPQ programme now:
NPQ Expression of Interest – Cohort 6 (Autumn 2026)
We’re here to support you to identify the right programme, secure your place, and translate learning into meaningful impact across your school.
Take your next step with Saffron.