The Leader Apprenticeships with NPQs are funded by the Apprenticeship Levy and have a proven track record of developing outstanding senior leaders, headteachers, and executive leaders.
With NPQ scholarships still in short supply, more educators are seeing the value of gaining both an NPQ and an apprenticeship standard through this dual pathway.
At the same time, schools continue to underspend millions in Apprenticeship Levy funding each year—these programmes provide a way to ensure that money set aside for staff development is used as intended, rather than being reclaimed by central government.
What are the Leader Apprenticeships with NPQs?
These innovative programmes provide comprehensive support, combining the full NPQ curriculum with the practical, hands-on experience of an apprenticeship.
This blended learning approach sets the Leader Apprenticeships apart from traditional NPQs. Learners benefit from cross-sector leadership training, giving them a broader perspective on leadership as they learn best practices from different sectors of the economy. This equips school leaders with a diverse skillset, enabling them to tackle a wider range of challenges.
A graduate story: from deputy to headteacher
We recently spoke with a Headteacher Programme Graduate, Sam Stevenson. As a deputy head at the time, she wanted to grow professionally while exploring the potential for headship in the future.
Sam describes the ethical leadership module as transformative. “It made me reflect deeply on my values and leadership style,” she explains. This module gave her a clearer understanding of the type of school culture she wanted to be a part of and how to align her leadership with her personal values.
The programme offered a balance of theoretical and practical learning. “The finance module was particularly useful,” Sam says. “It helped me think strategically and make better decisions for the long-term benefit of the school.” As an apprenticeship, the Headteacher Programme provides a strong framework for implementing evidence-based practices, which Sam found invaluable in improving school priorities.
Face-to-Face events were another highlight for Sam. Learners will attend between 4-6 Face-to-Face events, giving them the opportunity to learn from experienced facilitators, share ideas with their peers and form connections. Sam enjoyed networking with peers and learning from their diverse experiences. “We created a WhatsApp group that’s still active today,” she says. “It’s a great source of support and inspiration.”
Coaching was equally impactful. Sam praised her coach for being a constant source of guidance. “Debs was brilliant—always there to help me stay on track and navigate challenges,” she recalls. Every learner benefits from dedicated support throughout from an apprenticeship mentor and apprenticeship performance coach. They provide practical, real-time guidance to support the learner’s progress and development, offer feedback on task submissions and provide coaching during monthly meetings.
Off-the-job training is also a crucial part of these programmes, which Sam successfully integrated into her daily work. “It tied in with my existing responsibilities, making it feel like a natural part of my role,” she explains. Sam firmly believes the apprenticeship improved her leadership skills. “It’s given me the tools to foster a collaborative culture and focus on what really matters,” she says. Now, equipped with these skills and insights, Sam was able to take the next step in her career and become a headteacher.
For every stage of leadership
There are 3 programmes available for varying levels of leadership.
- The School Leader Programme, Level 5 Apprenticeship with NPQSL, is suitable for current and aspiring senior leaders.
- The Headteacher Programme, Level 7 Apprenticeship with NPQH, prepares recently appointed and aspiring headteachers for success.
- Experienced headteachers and executive leaders can improve their practice with the Executive Leader Programme, Level 7 Apprenticeship with NPQEL.
Final chance for level 7 funding
Due to the changes being implemented in late 2025 to Level 7 Apprenticeship funding, this is the final chance teachers have to complete the Headteacher Programme and Executive Leader Programme. Without Apprenticeship Levy funding, these programmes would cost £14,000.
Next steps
For more information on Leader Apprenticeships with NPQs visit www.bestpracticenet.co.uk/npq-leader.
Check if your school is eligible for NPQ Scholarships with the DfE NPQ Scholarship Checker.
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