Top 10 Head Teacher Certifications

Certifications are important for head teachers in the job market because they demonstrate that a teacher has the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities to lead a school. Certifications provide evidence of expertise in areas such as curriculum development, instructional leadership, budgeting, personnel management, and other topics related to effective school administration. They also show that a head teacher is up-to-date on best practices in education and has taken the time to pursue professional development opportunities. This can help make them stand out from other applicants when applying for positions due to their qualifications and experience. Furthermore, certifications can be used as leverage during salary negotiations, since they indicate that a head teacher is well-versed in their field and able to contribute significantly to the success of an organization.

This article reviews the top certifications for Head Teachers and explains how they can help advance a head teacher's career.

What are Head Teacher Certifications?

Head Teacher Certification is a professional development program designed to equip school leaders with the skills and knowledge necessary to lead their schools in an effective and efficient manner. The program is typically offered by universities, colleges, or specialized education organizations. It consists of a series of courses and workshops that cover topics such as educational leadership, curriculum development, instructional methods, school management, budgeting and personnel management.

The goal of Head Teacher Certification is to provide school leaders with the tools they need to be successful in their roles. It helps them develop the skills that are essential for leading a successful school environment while also providing them with the knowledge they need to ensure their staffs are prepared and supported. Additionally, it can help administrators understand how to effectively manage resources so that their schools’ goals can be achieved more efficiently.

Head Teacher Certification also provides an opportunity for educators to stay current on best practices in the field of education and gain insights into emerging trends in education policy and research. This can help administrators make informed decisions about how best to serve their students and ensure they have access to quality educational opportunities. Finally, certification programs often include networking opportunities which allow educators to develop relationships with other leaders in the field who may be able to provide guidance or support when needed.

Pro Tip: When seeking head teacher certification, be sure to research the requirements of your state and/or district so that you can make sure you are meeting all necessary criteria. Additionally, look into any professional development opportunities that may help you gain the skills and knowledge needed to become a successful head teacher.

Related: What does a Head Teacher do?

Top 10 Head Teacher Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Head Teachers today.

1. National Professional Qualification for Headship (NPQH)

The National Professional Qualification for Headship (NPQH) is a qualification that provides aspiring school leaders with the knowledge, understanding and skills they need to become successful headteachers. It is designed to help those who are looking to take on a leadership role in an educational setting, either as a headteacher or in another senior management position.

The NPQH is a nationally recognised qualification awarded by the National College for Teaching and Leadership (NCTL). It usually takes around 12 months to complete the qualification, although this can vary depending on individual circumstances.

To get the NPQH, applicants must first register with their local authority or other approved provider. They will then be required to attend face-to-face training sessions, complete online learning activities and assessments, and undertake a period of practical experience in an educational setting.

The cost of the NPQH varies depending on which provider you choose. Generally speaking, it costs around £2,000 - £3,000 for the full course.

2. National Award for SEN Coordination (NASC)

The National Award for SEN Coordination (NASC) is a professional qualification awarded by the Department for Education to those who have achieved a high level of competence in their role as Special Educational Needs Coordinators (SENCOs). The award is designed to recognise and reward excellence in SEN coordination and provide an opportunity for SENCOs to further develop their skills and knowledge.

It takes around 18 months to complete the NASC, although this can vary depending on individual circumstances. To get the award, you must complete a portfolio of evidence that demonstrates your knowledge, skills and experience in the role of SENCO. This includes completing a range of activities such as attending training courses, writing reports, delivering presentations and engaging with parents/carers.

The cost of the NASC depends on where you are studying. It usually costs between £1,000-£2,000 but may be more or less depending on your provider.

3. Certificate in Educational Leadership and Management (CELM)

The Certificate in Educational Leadership and Management (CELM) is a post-graduate qualification designed to equip educational leaders with the skills, knowledge and understanding needed to effectively manage and lead education organisations. The CELM is a Level 7 qualification (equivalent to a Master’s degree) which can be studied part-time or full-time over two years.

The CELM covers topics such as strategic planning, curriculum design, financial management, human resources management, organisational development and change management. It also includes modules on research methods, professional practice and leadership development.

To get the CELM you will need to have an undergraduate degree in any discipline, plus at least three years of relevant work experience in an education setting. You will then need to apply for the course through your chosen university or college.

The cost of the CELM varies depending on where you study and what type of programme you choose (e.g. full-time or part-time). Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere between £6,000 - £12,000 for the entire two-year course.

4. Chartered College of Teaching Leadership Programme

The Chartered College of Teaching Leadership Programme is a professional development programme designed to equip educational professionals with the skills and knowledge needed to become effective leaders in their field. The programme covers topics such as leadership, management, and teaching strategies. It is suitable for those who are already working in education or those who are looking to pursue a career in this sector.

The programme takes 18 months to complete and consists of four modules, each lasting six months. The modules cover topics such as: Understanding Leadership; Leading Change; Developing Professional Practice; and Enhancing Learning Outcomes. Participants will gain an understanding of the roles and responsibilities of school leaders, develop their own leadership capabilities, and explore how they can use research-based approaches to improve teaching and learning outcomes.

To get the Chartered College of Teaching Leadership Programme you must first have completed either a degree or postgraduate qualification in education or have at least three years’ experience working in an educational setting. You must also be able to demonstrate that you have the necessary skills and knowledge needed to lead effectively within your area of expertise.

The cost of the programme varies depending on which institution you choose to study with but typically ranges from £2,000 - £4,000 for the entire 18 month course.

5. Institute of Education Management (IEM) Diploma

The Institute of Education Management (IEM) Diploma is a professional qualification designed to equip education leaders with the skills and knowledge required to manage and lead successful educational institutions. The diploma is accredited by the Institute of Education Management, which is an international body dedicated to promoting excellence in education management.

The IEM Diploma is a two-year program that consists of five modules: Leadership & Management, Strategic Planning, Financial Management, Human Resources & Organizational Development, and Quality Assurance & Evaluation. Each module requires the completion of a series of courses and assignments. Upon successful completion of all five modules, students will receive their diploma.

In order to get the IEM Diploma, students must first apply for admission to the program through the Institute’s website. Once accepted into the program, students can begin taking classes online or in person at one of IEM’s partner universities around the world. Students must also complete an internship in order to gain practical experience in education management.

The cost of obtaining an IEM Diploma varies depending on where you are studying and what type of courses you are taking. Generally speaking, tuition fees for full-time study range from $4,000-$8,000 USD per year. In addition to tuition fees, there may be additional costs for books and other materials related to coursework.

6. International Baccalaureate Organisation (IBO) School Leadership Programme

The International Baccalaureate Organisation (IBO) School Leadership Programme is a comprehensive school leadership programme designed to help school leaders develop their skills and knowledge in the areas of curriculum, assessment, and instruction. The programme consists of two parts: an online course and a face-to-face workshop.

The online course is self-paced and takes approximately 8 weeks to complete. It covers topics such as curriculum design, assessment strategies, instructional approaches, leadership styles, and communication techniques. The course also includes activities that allow participants to apply their learning in practical situations.

The face-to-face workshop is held over two days and provides an opportunity for participants to network with other school leaders from around the world. During the workshop, participants will engage in interactive sessions focusing on topics such as leading change, developing effective teams, building trust within schools, and creating a positive learning environment.

The cost of the IBO School Leadership Programme varies depending on the country in which it is taken. Generally speaking, it costs between $1,000-$2,000 USD per participant for both the online course and face-to-face workshop.

To get started with the IBO School Leadership Programme you must first register on their website at www.ibo.org/schools/leadership/. Once registered you will receive access to all of the materials needed for both parts of the programme as well as information about upcoming workshops in your area.

7. Advanced Diploma in Educational Leadership and Management (ADELM)

The Advanced Diploma in Educational Leadership and Management (ADELM) is a professional qualification designed to equip educational leaders with the skills, knowledge and understanding required to lead and manage effectively in the education sector. It is offered by leading universities in the UK, such as the University of Manchester, University of Sheffield and University College London.

The ADELM typically takes one year to complete on a full-time basis. It consists of six modules covering topics such as school leadership, curriculum development, human resource management, finance and budgeting, educational policy and research methods. Each module requires approximately 200 hours of study time.

To get an ADELM you must first have a good undergraduate degree or equivalent qualification in any subject area. You may also be asked to provide evidence of your relevant work experience or training. Once you have met these requirements you can apply for admission to the course through UCAS or directly with the university offering it.

The cost of an ADELM varies depending on which university you attend but typically ranges from £4,000 - £7,000 for tuition fees alone. Additional costs such as travel expenses, accommodation and books should also be taken into account when considering the overall cost of pursuing this qualification.

8. National Professional Qualification for Senior Leadership (NPQSL)

National Professional Qualification for Senior Leadership (NPQSL) is an Ofsted-recognised qualification that provides senior leaders with the skills, knowledge and understanding to lead their organisation effectively. It is designed to enable school leaders to develop a deep understanding of the complexities of leading a school and acquire the skills necessary to drive improvement in outcomes for all learners.

The NPQSL is typically completed over a 12 month period and consists of three one-day workshops, two online modules, and a final assessment. The workshops cover topics such as effective leadership, developing strategic vision, managing change, and leading teams. The online modules focus on self-evaluation and data analysis, while the final assessment involves preparing a portfolio of evidence demonstrating how you have applied your learning in practice.

To get the NPQSL you need to be working in a school or educational setting in either a leadership or management role. You will also need to have access to an experienced mentor who can provide guidance throughout the course.

The cost of the NPQSL varies depending on provider but generally ranges from £1,000 - £2,000.

9. Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE)

The Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) is a professional qualification for teaching in the United Kingdom. It is awarded by universities or other higher education institutions and enables graduates to become qualified teachers in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. The PGCE is also recognised as a teaching qualification in many other countries.

The PGCE typically takes one year to complete and can be taken either full-time or part-time. It consists of academic study, practical teaching experience, and professional development activities. Academic study usually includes modules on educational theory, practice and research methods. Practical teaching experience is gained through placements in schools which are supervised by experienced teachers. Professional development activities include attending seminars, workshops and conferences.

To get a PGCE you need to have an undergraduate degree in a relevant subject area such as education, psychology or English literature. You may also need GCSEs in Maths and English at grade C or above, as well as knowledge of the National Curriculum for your chosen age range. Some universities may also require applicants to have experience of working with children or young people before they will accept them onto their PGCE course.

The cost of the PGCE varies depending on the university you choose to study with but it typically ranges from £4,000 - £9,000 for UK/EU students studying full-time over one year. For international students studying full-time over one year it can range from £10,000 - £15,000 depending on the institution.

10. Masters in Educational Leadership and Management

Masters in Educational Leadership and Management (MELM) is a two-year graduate program that provides students with the knowledge, skills, and abilities to become effective leaders in educational settings. The program focuses on developing leadership skills, understanding the dynamics of organizational change, and building collaborative relationships. Students learn how to lead school districts, universities, and other educational organizations through the application of research-based practices.

The MELM program typically takes two years to complete. Most programs require students to complete core courses such as Educational Administration, School Law & Policy, Curriculum & Instructional Design, and Research & Evaluation Methods. In addition to these core courses, students may also take electives or specialize in a particular area of education such as special education or instructional technology.

To get a Masters in Educational Leadership and Management, you must first have an undergraduate degree from an accredited college or university. You will then need to complete the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or another standardized test required by your chosen school. After completing the GRE or other standardized test requirement, you can apply for admission into a MELM program at an accredited institution.

The cost of a Masters in Educational Leadership and Management varies depending on the school you choose and whether you attend full-time or part-time. Generally speaking, tuition costs range from $10 000-$25 000 per year for full-time students and $5 000-$15 000 per year for part-time students. Additional fees such as books and supplies may also be required.

Do You Really Need a Head Teacher Certificate?

Whether or not you need a head teacher certificate to become a head teacher depends on the school district and state where you are applying for the job. Many districts require that applicants have a valid certificate from an accredited program in order to be considered for the position. There are also some states that may require additional qualifications, such as a master’s degree or other advanced degrees, before they will consider an applicant for the position.

If you are considering applying for a head teacher position, it is important to research the requirements of the school district and state where you are applying. If they do require certification, then you should take steps to obtain one as soon as possible. Most states offer certification programs through their respective departments of education or other professional organizations that can help prepare you for the job.

Having a valid head teacher certificate can give potential employers assurance that you have been properly trained and qualified for the job. It can also demonstrate your commitment to teaching and your dedication to providing quality education to students in your district. In addition, having this type of certification can make you more competitive when it comes time to apply for open positions in larger school districts or those with higher standards for hiring teachers.

Overall, whether or not you need a head teacher certificate depends on the requirements of the school district and state where you are applying. However, if this type of certification is required, then it is important that you take steps to obtain one so that potential employers know that you are qualified and dedicated to providing quality educational experiences for students in your district.

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FAQs About Head Teacher Certifications

1. What is a Head Teacher Certification?

Answer: A Head Teacher Certification is a professional certification program for teachers who wish to advance their career by gaining additional qualifications. The certification provides specialized knowledge and skills in educational leadership, curriculum design and instruction, assessment, and school management.

2. How do I become certified as a Head Teacher?

Answer: To become certified as a Head Teacher, you must meet the requirements of your state's department of education. Generally, this includes completing a Bachelor’s degree in Education or a related field, passing an examination covering topics such as curriculum design and instruction, assessment and school management, completing continuing education credits, and having at least three years of teaching experience.

3. How long does it take to get certified?

Answer: The length of time it takes to become certified depends on the individual’s educational background and experience level. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from 1-3 years to complete all the necessary requirements for certification.

4. What are the benefits of becoming a Head Teacher?

Answer: Becoming a Head Teacher offers many benefits including increased job security and advancement opportunities within the field of education. Additionally, earning this certification can also provide greater salary potential and improved job satisfaction due to the increased responsibility that comes with being in charge of an entire school or district’s staff and students.

5. Are there any special requirements for renewal?

Answer: Yes - most states require that you renew your head teacher certification every five years by completing continuing education credits or attending professional development workshops related to educational leadership and management.