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鈥攖hese 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. 鈥淚t made me reflect deeply on my values and leadership style,鈥� 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. 鈥淭he finance module was particularly useful,鈥� Sam says. 鈥淚t helped me think strategically and make better decisions for the long-term benefit of the school.鈥� 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. 鈥淲e created a WhatsApp group that鈥檚 still active today,鈥� she says. 鈥淚t鈥檚 a great source of support and inspiration.鈥� Coaching was equally impactful. Sam praised her coach for being a constant source of guidance. 鈥淒ebs was brilliant鈥攁lways there to help me stay on track and navigate challenges,鈥� 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鈥檚 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. 鈥淚t tied in with my existing responsibilities, making it feel like a natural part of my role,鈥� she explains. Sam firmly believes the apprenticeship improved her leadership skills. 鈥淚t鈥檚 given me the tools to foster a collaborative culture and focus on what really matters,鈥� 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. 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 拢14,000. Next steps For more information on Leader Apprenticeships with NPQs visit Check if your school is eligible for NPQ Scholarships with the .