Impact of the NLE/NSS Programme

Over 700 schools have been supported since the first national leaders of education (NLEs) and national support schools (NSSs) were appointed, and over half a million pupils have benefited as a result. Test results for schools involved in the programme demonstrate a significant impact on school improvement.

On average, between 2007 and 2009, maintained primary schools supported by an NLE/NSS demonstrated a percentage improvement for their Key Stage 2 results of over nine times that of the national average.

During the same period, the average percentage improvement of children achieving five or more A*–C grade GCSEs (including English and maths) in maintained secondary schools supported by an NLEs/NSS was over twice that of the national average.

The results of the supporting schools in both phases have continued to improve above the national average.

In addition, the quality of leadership at all levels in the supported schools has improved and the programme puts significant emphasis on giving the schools ownership of their own progress.

The programme also gives staff in the national support schools an opportunity to “step up” and take on more responsibility, either in the supported school or their own school. Many of those involved have identified this as one of the greatest strengths of the programme in helping to bring on the next generation of school leaders at all levels.

Case studies

These case studies provide a flavour of what a difference the National Leaders of Education and National Support Schools Programme is making:

Publications

These publications specifically highlight the impact of the NLE/NSS programme.