Your leadership journey is unique, and the Leader Apprenticeships with NPQs, offered by Supporting Education Group’s Best Practice Network, are designed to support you every step of the way. These programmes combine the academic foundations of NPQs with the practical application of apprenticeships, creating a well-rounded learning experience. But what truly makes these programmes stand out is the personalised and comprehensive support network that empowers you to thrive, offering guidance, feedback and encouragement as you develop your leadership potential.
A network of support
You won’t be facing this learning and leadership journey alone. From your very first day, you’ll be part of a supportive network:
- Your Sponsor: A senior leader within your setting, such as your Headteacher or Chair of Governors, provides crucial support by formally declaring their commitment to your development and allocating you an Apprenticeship Mentor.Â
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- Your Apprenticeship Mentor (AM): This invaluable colleague, chosen by your Sponsor, will provide ongoing support. They will offer practical and real-time support for the learner through meetings, formative dialogue about the learner’s progress and development as well as supporting the learner to fully engage with all elements of the programme.Â
“I am very grateful to my Apprenticeship Mentor for their advice, support and listening ear over the time of the programme.” – Leader Apprenticeship with NPQ GraduateÂ
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- Your Apprenticeship Performance Coach (APC): Appointed by Best Practice Network, your APC will be your primary point of contact throughout the programme. They will offer feedback on task submissions, support you when you are gathering evidence for the portfolio and coach you during the tripartite review meetings with the AM.Â
“My coach was brilliant. She was understanding and kept me on track despite the challenges. She provided guidance and helped me make the right decisions at critical moments.” – Leader Apprenticeship with NPQ Graduate
- Face-to-Face Event Facilitators: Expert facilitators lead engaging face-to-face events, fostering learning and networking opportunities with other leaders.Â
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“Lots of information and great discussion from the facilitators aided my learning and helped me review my own leadership.” – Leader Apprenticeship with NPQ Graduate
- Your Fellow Learners: Connect with other leaders across the country through online platforms and at face-to-face events. Share experiences, learn from one another and build a valuable professional network.Â
“We created a WhatsApp group that’s still active today, it’s a great source of support and inspiration.” – Leader Apprenticeship with NPQ GraduateÂ
What this means for you
This multifaceted support system ensures you receive guidance and encouragement at every stage of your apprenticeship. You’ll have the opportunity to:Â
- Reflect on your practice: Gain valuable insights through regular discussions with your AM and APC.Â
- Apply learning directly to your role: Develop and implement strategies that address real-world challenges in your settingÂ
- Build confidence and resilience: Receive ongoing support and encouragement to overcome obstacles and achieve your goalsÂ
- Connect with a wider community of leaders: Learn from the experiences of others and build valuable professional relationshipsÂ
Programmes available
- School Leader Programme (Level 5 Apprenticeship with NPQSL)Â
Designed for aspiring or recently appointed senior leaders.Â
- Headteacher Programme (Level 7 Apprenticeship with NPQH)Â
Designed for aspiring or recently appointed headteachers.Â
- Executive Leader Programme (Level 7 Apprenticeship with NPQEL)Â
Designed for aspiring or recently appointed executive leaders with 3 years’ experience as a headteacher.Â
Find out more about how leadership training can support staff retention and wellbeing.