Course leaders
It will be led by the National College for School Leadership (www.ncsl.org.uk) in partnership with the Pen Green Leadership Centre (www.pengreen.org), which already offers a range of training, including an MA in Leadership and Management with Middlesex University and an MAin Integrated Early Years Settings and Services, in collaboration with the University of Leicester.
Pilot
The NPQICL will be piloted in September 2004 at the Pen Green Centre, then rolled out in 2005. The pilot group, of 35 invited participants, will be funded by the DfES.
Study choices
There are two routes through the NPQICL qualification. The study route involves participants working with tutors and fellow course members on various modules which include exploring the leadership experience, values, principles and developing an effective learning environment.
The research route, for those with appropriate qualifications and experience, offers the opportunity to undertake research on their own leadership and on how to develop leadership with integrated provision.
Further study
Pen Green has entered into a partnership with Middlesex University so that the NPQICL will be accredited for 60 credits at level 4, equating to a third of an MA. Participants will be able to go on and complete a full MA in Leadership and Management.
Participants
Initially, the qualification will be offered to children's centre heads and deputies. But the programme's multi-disciplinary approach makes it relevant for leaders from a range of settings, such as extended schools.
