International NPQs Explained
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"Our NPQs equip educators with the skills, confidence, and networks they need to drive meaningful change in their schools, no matter where they are in the world."
Doug Edwards
International NPQs Explained
National Professional Qualifications (NPQs) are a suite of leadership and professional development programmes designed by the Department for Education (DfE) in England. These qualifications equip teachers and school leaders with the skills and expertise to drive sustainable improvement within their schools.
Over the past six years, more than 4,000 education professionals outside the UK have undertaken NPQs with Best Practice Network. Since 2019, we have expanded our offer to international schools, helping them address key challenges such as staff recruitment, retention, and leadership development.
Our Seven International NPQ Programmes
Our international NPQs cater to a range of leadership roles:
- NPQ for Leading Teaching (NPQLT) – for those leading or aspiring to lead teaching in a subject, year group, key stage, or phase
- NPQ for Leading Behaviour and Culture (NPQLBC) – for those leading or aspiring to lead behaviour management, culture, and pupil well-being
- NPQ for Leading Teacher Development (NPQLTD) – for those leading or aspiring to lead the professional development of teachers
- NPQ for Senior Leadership (NPQSL) – for those stepping into or currently in senior leadership roles
- NPQ for Headship (NPQH) – for those aspiring to become or currently serving as headteachers
- NPQ for SENCOs (NPQSENCO) – for those appointed as or aspiring to be Special Educational Needs Coordinators (SENCOs)
- NPQ for Executive Leadership (NPQEL) – for those leading across multiple schools or organisations
Why Participants Choose Our NPQs
Educators invest significant time and effort into professional development, so it’s important that their learning delivers real value. Here’s what they gain from our NPQs:
✅ Career Progression – internationally recognised qualifications that support leadership aspirations globally and in the UK
✅ Practical, Evidence-Based Learning – develop strategies grounded in research to drive effective school improvement
✅ Context-Specific Training – apply UK best practices while adapting them to the unique challenges of international schools
✅ Global Networking – connect with educators worldwide, exchanging insights and best practices across different educational settings
"I am convinced that the NPQEL contributed to my expanded knowledge and confidence in leading multiple schools and navigating relationships with the school board.”
- Anna Adasiewicz, NPQEL Graduate
How Schools Benefit from NPQs
Schools and organisations investing in NPQs see direct improvements in leadership capacity and staff retention. Some of the key benefits include:
🏫 Succession Planning – preparing staff for future middle or senior leadership roles within the organisation
🔑 Retaining Key Staff – demonstrating commitment to staff development, increasing job satisfaction and retention
🎯 Supporting Recruitment – Strengthening your employer value proposition by offering CPD opportunities, including NPQs as part of contracts (e.g. offering NPQH to a newly appointed headteacher)
"Our engagement with NPQs delivered by Best Practice Network has unquestionably enhanced our leadership capacity. Notably, it has improved the quality of discussions at Middle and Senior Leadership levels, as NPQ participants have gained confidence in applying evidence-based strategies to improve learning, teaching, and student outcomes."
- GEMS, Accredited Delivery Partner
With participants in over 75 countries, we tailor our programmes to meet the diverse needs of international schools, ensuring meaningful and immediate impact.
Investing in NPQs isn’t just about individual development - it’s about strengthening schools and securing long-term success. Join the thousands of educators worldwide who are advancing their careers with Best Practice Network’s International NPQs.
International Courses
If you would like to get started with introducing NPQs to your international school and are interested in hosting Face-to-Face events in your area, please get in contact and email me via douglasedwards@bestpracticenet.co.uk.
