CPD options for headteachers

Whether you’re new to the role or looking to develop your skills, take a look at your options for professional development and training as a headteacher.

Last reviewed on 7 November 2023
School types: AllSchool phases: AllRef: 48477
Contents
  1. Identify areas for your development
  2. NPQs
  3. CPD from The Key
  4. Coaching and mentoring
  5. Headship networks

Identify areas for your development

Work out where you want to improve your skills and knowledge, so that you can plan the most effective CPD.

Assess yourself against:

  • The teachers' and headteachers' standards
  • Your own performance objectives
  • Any skills needed to help you follow your school improvement plan (SIP)

Use our headteachers' self-assessment tool to get started.

NPQs

National Professional Qualifications (NPQs) are training courses run by DfE-accredited providers.

They are currently fully funded by the DfE, meaning they don’t need to come out of your school's CPD budget.

You can take the following courses, even if you’re already in a headship role:

They’re designed for you to take flexibly around your current role.

For more information about NPQs and how they’re funded, take a look at our summary article.

Early headship coaching offer

In the first 5