Givan announces award of professional learning programme for new and aspiring school principals
Date published:
Education Minister Paul Givan, has announced the award of a three-year contract for a professional learning programme to support newly appointed and aspiring school principals.
This replacement to the former Professional Qualification for Headship (PQH) will provide a structured, evidence-informed programme focused on the key knowledge and skills required by effective principals.
Announcing the programme, Paul Givan said:
“Leadership is central to the success of high-performing education systems and is a key influence on pupil learning.
“In recognition of this, I prioritised the development of a comprehensive programme to support future school leaders. I am pleased to confirm that a consortium of local Higher Education Institutions, Queen’s University, Belfast, Stranmillis University College, St Mary’s University College and Ulster University, will be developing and delivering this programme on behalf of my Department and I look forward to working in partnership with them.
"The Higher Education Institutions will begin engaging with key stakeholders in the current academic term. I would encourage everyone to use this opportunity to help shape the programme."
This programme will run for 18 months and comprise two leadership modules as well as a placement experience.
The Minister continued:
"A first pilot of the new programme will launch in January 2027. Alongside the other leadership development components of TransformED and relevant actions in response to the Independent Review of Teacher Workload, this programme will support our future leaders on their professional learning journey, beginning their preparation for the challenges that the role of principal brings."
Further information will be provided during the 2026/27 autumn term.
Notes to editors:
- Following a competitive procurement process, a consortium of local Higher Education Institutions have been appointed to develop and deliver this programme, including Queen’s University, Belfast, Stranmillis University College, St Mary’s University College and Ulster University. The contract is in place for an initial three-year period, with an optional two-year extension.
- Development of a replacement qualification for headship is a key commitment within the Department’s TransformED Strategy.
- Further information on TransformED can be found at https://www.education-ni.gov.uk/topics/transformed.
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