Executive Leadership (NPQEL)


National Professional Qualification in Executive Leadership (NPQEL)

We are delighted to be partnering with Teach First to deliver this programme.

The Teach First programme is currently being delivered collaboratively between the Saffron Teaching School Hub and the Cambridgeshire & Peterborough Teaching School Hub. Face-to-face conferences are held nationally in Birmingham.

  • Target Audience: school leaders who are, or are aspiring to be, an Executive Headteacher or have a school trust CEO role with responsibility for leading several schools.
  • Course Length: 18 months, plus 3 months for assessment period
  • Next Programme Start Date: Spring 2025
  • Brochure: Teach First

Programme cost

The cost of the NPQ in Executive Leadership is £3,890.

Funding for target scholarships

Please see the funding information on our main NPQ page here.


What will I learn?

You’ll develop expertise in the knowledge, skills and concepts for areas of trust-level responsibility related to your role.

Modules include:

  • Trust culture
  • Teaching
  • Curriculum and assessment
  • Behaviour
  • Additional and special educational needs
  • Professional development
  • Organisational management
  • Implementation
  • Working in partnership
  • Governance and accountability

Programme breakdown

Your Learning Journey

Designed with busy school leaders in mind, the NPQEL is delivered over 18 months using a blend of online seminars, flexible online learning and conferences.

How will I benefit?

Over 18 months, you will:

  • Develop specialist expertise in running a multi-school organisation, gaining practical skills in effectively managing resources and establishing sustainable policies.
  • Effectively implement change and improvement in an area you identify as a trust priority.
  • Connect with and learn from other executive leaders in the field.
  • Build and expand your network across the country.