National Professional Qualifications
FAQs – National Professional Qualifications
What are the reformed NPQs?
National professional qualifications (NPQs) are a national suite of qualifications designed to support the professional development of teachers and leaders. We’re committed to ensuring that NPQs continue to offer the best support to teachers and leaders wanting to expand their knowledge and skills. For 2024/2025 the suite of NPQs will comprise of 10 NPQs:
Who are the accredited NPQ Lead Providers?
Nine providers have been accredited by the Department for Education who will design a programme of face-to-face and online training:
· Best Practice Network (home of Outstanding Leaders Partnership)
· LLSE
Can organisations other than Teaching School Hubs acts as Delivery Partners on NPQs?
Yes, Lead Providers can choose to work with other organisations such as large MATS who can deliver ‘at scale’. However, the DfE has invested in Teaching School Hubs so that they can provide an infrastructure to deliver the remit given by the DfE, including delivery of the suite of National Professional Qualifications (NPQs). There is an expectation from Lead Providers that Delivery Partners will be in a position deliver ‘at scale’, Teaching School Hubs are specifically resourced for this level of delivery.
What role will Ofsted play in relation to NPQs?
Providers of the reformed suite of NPQs will be subject to a quality assurance mechanism through Ofsted inspection to ensure the best support for schools and teachers.
When will I hear if I have been accepted onto an NPQ programme?
Once our application window is open, applications are assessed and anonymously screened as they are received. We aim to provide you with a response within 10 working days.
Can a member of staff without QTS sign up for an NPQ and get DfE funding?
Yes, the DfE has confirmed that QTS is not a requirement for NPQs. There will be some online academic reading. Every application is reviewed on a case by case basis, regardless of QTS. Applicants without QTS can apply for a TRN (Teacher Reference Number) by following the steps outlined here.
Can I take an NPQ if I am not a UK trained teacher?
Yes, and if you are employed by a school in England you may also be eligible for full funding. You will need to apply for a TRN (Teacher Reference Number) by following the steps outlined here.
I have previously completed an NPQ in the old framework, can I do the same course again?
Yes. The specialist NPQs are completely distinct from the old NPQML. The NPQEYL, NPQSL and NPQH have been designed from scratch, so you will have a different experience doing the same course again.
Who is eligible for the Early Headship Coaching Offer (formerly ASO) for new Headteachers and what if I move school during the programme?
The support offer is available to those in their first 5 years of headship, who have either completed the new/reformed NPQ before becoming a head, are applying for the NPQH or are currently taking the existing NPQH. The EHCO will be a targeted package of support aimed at new headteachers, and based on the content of the new NPQH, which has been reformed to ensure it is underpinned by the latest and best evidence.
If you commence an NPQ and then move school, you would be able to continue your study. If you are taking the NPQH and become a headteacher in the new school you would then be eligible for the fully funded Early Headhsip Coaching Offer element.
Who is eligible for full scholarship funding?
Visit our NPQ Funding Information page here for further information.
What if my school is not eligible for funding?
You will need to speak to the relevant senior lead at your school to find out if your school/trust will support you with the cost of your NPQ. You also have the option of self-funding or coming to a part-payment arrangement with your school or trust.
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