Leadership Growth for All: NPQ Cohort 6 Funding Announcement
There's something genuinely exciting about a funding offer that doesn't just open doors – it flings them wide open. That's exactly what the DfE has done with the National Professional Qualifications (NPQs) for Cohort 6, starting in November 2026.
There is real depth in this opportunity – because this isn’t a small, targeted offer. This is leadership development at scale, designed to nurture talent at every stage and in every corner of our education system.
Fully Funded – A Powerful Commitment
The headline news? Full scholarship funding is available for some of the most impactful NPQs:
- NPQ Senior Leadership
- NPQ Headship
- NPQ Early Years Leadership
- NPQ Special Educational Needs Co-ordinator
The reach is impressive – all state-funded schools, including virtual schools, and further education settings can apply. Even more encouraging, the Early Years Leadership programme extends into nurseries, early years settings, and childminders. That's a real nod to the importance of leadership from the very start of a child’s journey.
Funding information: GOV.UK | Funding for National Professional Qualifications (NPQs): Autumn 2026
Supporting Priority Schools
In true equity-driven fashion, the DfE has also prioritised schools serving higher proportions of disadvantaged pupils. Eligible schools may access scholarship funding for a broader suite of specialist NPQs:
- NPQ Executive Leadership
- NPQ Leading Behaviour & Culture
- NPQ Leading Literacy
- NPQ Leading Primary Maths
- NPQ Leading Teaching
- NPQ Leading Teacher Development
It’s worth noting that funding is limited, and eligibility doesn’t guarantee a place – so if you’re considering this, now is the time to act.
You can check eligibility here: PP50 Eligible Settings
Delivered with Trusted Partners
Saffron Teaching School Hub is proud to be working alongside Teach First and the National Institute of Teaching to bring these programmes to life across our region. Together, we’re offering a rich menu of NPQ programmes designed to meet diverse leadership aspirations.
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Saffron Teaching School Hub NPQ programmes (Autumn 2026) |
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Teach First |
National Institute of Teaching |
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It’s a partnership approach that gives you both quality and choice – exactly what professional development should feel like.
Key Dates to Remember
Mark your calendars – this is one you won’t want to miss:
1 June 2026:
- Teach First applications open
- NIoT expressions of interest open
23 June 2026:
- NIoT applications open
- DfE funding portal opens
Next Steps
Register now with Saffron Teaching School Hub and start your application for our November 2026 NPQ programmes:
Saffron Teaching School Hub – National Professional Qualifications
Let’s Talk
Choosing the right NPQ is an important step, and we’re here to support you on that decision-making journey. Whether you're mapping out your own journey, or considering a Whole School Development approach, get in touch with us to talk through your next steps:
- Kerrie McGivern – kerriemcgivern@saffron.academy
- Erica Carver – ecarver@saffron.academy
This is what it looks like when investment meets ambition. Whether you’re stepping into leadership, refining your practice, or shaping system-wide impact – there’s something here for you. The scale, the inclusivity, the intent… it’s all pointing in one direction: stronger leadership, better outcomes, and a profession that continues to grow together.
Let’s make the most of it.