Investing in NPQH must be a priority

The government must continue to invest in training for school leaders if it is to ensure a high-status, highly-qualified profession, says the Association of School and College Leaders, as it was announced today that the qualification will become optional for new headteachers.

Brian Lightman, ASCL General Secretary said:

“Having a national, professional qualification for headteachers has helped to raise the profile and status of school leadership in this country and it is something we should be proud of. If the government is serious about creating a high-status profession it must continue to invest in training for school leaders. This means continuing to subsidise NPQH to a level that is affordable for schools and potential future headteachers.”

“We regret that the government is making this qualification optional at a time when there has never been such great need for highly trained school leaders. In this new context, it will be important that this qualification continues to be sought after by appointment panels so that it remains the qualification of choice.”

“Reviewing the content of NPQH makes sense in the changing context of the education system over the last 18 months, but it is essential that the qualification continues to be relevant for all leaders in all types of schools.”

6 December 2011