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National Professional Qualification for Headship (NPQH)

In November 2010, the White Paper announced a review of the National Professional Qualification for Headship (NPQH). Following this review it has been decided that the following changes will be made to the programme:

  • NPQH will no longer be a mandatory qualification for first-time headteachers.
  • There will be new essential and elective modules with longer placements, and closer links to Master's and other postgraduate qualifications.
  • The revised NPQH programme will have a more rigorous entry process and final assessment.
  • There will be a more diverse range of organisations, including schools, involved in delivering the programme.

Removal of mandatory status

The decision to lift the mandatory status from NPQH is in line with ministerial intentions to give schools, and those who lead them, the freedom to make their own decisions. From early 2012 first-time headteachers will no longer have to hold NPQH in order to take up a headship post.

The government does however recognise the value and importance of NPQH, and endorse it as the qualification of choice for anyone aspiring to headship. The programme will also continue to be subsidised.

Current participants

Current participants of NPQH will not be affected by this change, and we recommend that they continue their studies through to graduation. We know that the current NPQH is highly regarded by governing bodies, and we expect that the status and credibility of the qualification will not be affected.

The redesigned NPQH

The new NPQH will continue to provide the evidence, experience and confidence aspirant headteachers need to secure their first headship. It will take the latest research into effective school and academy leadership, as well as current and future policy developments into consideration.

The content of the programme is being developed in discussion with leading headteachers, and as a result of this, the focus on leading teaching and learning, behaviour and performance management will be strengthened. The minimum amount of time that participants spend in another school will also be doubled.

New modules are being written in line with Master’s level criteria by leading academics and serving school leaders. The programme will involve both essential and elective modules involving extended case studies and in-school related assignments. Further information about the programme content will be available soon.

The number of Credit Accumulation and Transfer Scheme (CATS) points attributed to NPQH by universities will range from 60 to 120 points (between one and two thirds of an MBA), which will enhance graduates’ scope to progress to higher level qualifications.

The initial and final assessments for the programme are being revised to introduce more rigour. We are developing a new set of occupational requirements which will underpin the new assessment framework.

Further information

Application

The application round will open in spring 2012, with participants starting the programme in September 2012. To register your interest, complete the online registration form or email newnpqh@nationalcollege.org.uk.