Professional development

• National Leaders of Education and National Support Schools
  • Becoming an NLE
  • Apply
  • Deployment of NLEs and NSSs
  • Current NLEs and NSSs
  • Information for local authorities
  • Information for client schools
  • Information for governors
  • Impact of the programme
  • Frequently asked questions
  • Contact details
  • Appeals

National Leaders of Education and National Support Schools

National leaders of education (NLEs) are outstanding school leaders who, together with the staff in their schools, use their knowledge and experience of teaching to provide additional leadership capacity to schools in challenging circumstances. Many NLEs will have previously worked to support schools in challenging circumstances and all have worked beyond their own school. National support schools (NSS) are the schools for which the NLE is a serving headteacher.

Key facts

• The first tranche of NLEs/NSSs were designated in October 2006 and there are now over 400 NLEs/NSSs.
• The longer-term aim is to establish 500 NLEs/NSSs by 2012, with 300 in primary schools and 200 in secondary schools, so creating a critical mass of system leaders across the country.
• NLEs/NSSs main purpose is to ensure that there is a high quality education for every child.
• All NLEs/NSSs are supported by a National College consultant who provides guidance, support and assists with deployment.

Duration

Typically 1-3 years, depending on the school requiring support. When support is no longer required the NLE/NSS will be deployed to another school.

What's involved

After completing an online application form, successful NLEs will be invited to an induction event and their details added to our online database. Deployments will then be organised through the appropriate local authority with the aid of our regional consultants.

Who can apply?

Only the very best can be designated as an NLE/NSS. Characterised as professional, skilled, creative, innovative and inspirational, the NLE and NSS must satisfy demanding criteria.

Next application round

October 2010