Strong leadership makes a difference to the culture, direction and success of schools and education settings.
Our Leadership National Professional Qualifications (NPQs), delivered in partnership with University College London (UCL), support current and aspiring leaders to develop the expertise needed to lead people, teams and organisations effectively.
Whether you're preparing for your first senior leadership role or leading across a school, trust or group of settings, our programmes combine evidence-informed learning with practical application to help you grow as a leader.
NPQ in Early Years Leadership (NPQEYL)
For current and aspiring leaders of early years settings, including nursery managers, leaders of school-based nurseries and childminders with leadership responsibilities.
Develop your expertise in leading high-quality early years provision, including child development, curriculum, organisational management and working in partnership.
NPQ in Senior Leadership (NPQSL)
For current and aspiring senior leaders with cross-school responsibilities.
Develop the knowledge and skills to lead areas of whole-school improvement, contribute to strategic direction and support effective teaching and learning.
NPQ in Headship (NPQH)
For current and aspiring headteachers and heads of school.
Develop the expertise and confidence to lead a school, shape its vision and culture, and take responsibility for improving outcomes for pupils and the wider school community.
NPQ in Executive Leadership (NPQEL)
For current and aspiring executive headteachers and leaders with responsibility across multiple schools or a school trust.
Develop the knowledge and skills needed to lead at trust level, including organisational strategy, culture, governance, accountability and improvement across schools.
NPQ for Special Educational Needs Co-ordinators (NPQ for SENCOs)
For current and aspiring SENCOs and other education professionals seeking to develop their expertise in special educational needs and disabilities.
Strengthen your knowledge and leadership skills to support inclusive practice, improve provision and help ensure that children and young people with SEND receive the support they need.
Leadership NPQs are delivered over 18 months and are designed to fit alongside your professional responsibilities.
Learning includes:
The programme is designed to connect evidence and theory with the challenges and opportunities of everyday leadership.
Funding and eligibility can vary depending on the qualification, your role and the setting in which you work. Funded places may be limited.
Find out more about current eligibility, programme costs and how to apply.
If you're unsure which qualification is right for you, or would like to discuss the programme before applying, please get in touch with the Red Kite NPQ team.
