Applying for our NPQs
This section provides information on the application process for our NPQ programmes.
Browse below to find the information you need. We'll update this page throughout the year.
Frequently asked questions
- How do I apply for an NPQ programme?
- Applications for the next cohort will open in July 2024
- If you would like to be notified when applications open, please contact us and provide details of the NPQ you are interested in completing
- We will then be in touch when DfE registrations open, or you can get in touch with your delivery partner to find out more about your next steps.
- Once applications open, you’re encouraged to get your application in as soon as possible to secure your place. Places are allocated on a first come first served basis for eligible applicants.
- As a reminder, if your school is affiliated to one of our delivery partners (teaching school hubs and multi-academy trusts working with us to deliver our NPQs) you will be able to do your Teach First NPQ directly with the relevant delivery partner. We’ll let you know once you’ve applied.
- What should I check before starting an application?
Before applying, check whether your school is part of one of our delivery partners (a selection of teaching school hubs and multi-academy trusts working with us to deliver our NPQs). If it is, then once you have registered with the Department for Education (DfE) - see FAQ above - your delivery partner will be in touch with you directly to complete your application.
If you are applying to do your NPQ directly with Teach First, you will need to check if your school is a Teach First eligible school. Eligibility information can be found in the ‘Eligibility’ tab on our NPQs overview webpage.
Before applying, get your headteacher or CPD lead’s agreement to:
- fund the cost of the programme if your school is not eligible for DfE funding
- arrange cover for live training sessions (where possible these will be arranged out of school hours)
- cover any travel expenses for any in-person training sessions (depending on government advice).
And don’t forget to read our application guidance.
- What information do I need to hand when completing the application form?
NPQ applicants should have the following information to hand when registering with the DfE:
- Your TRN (Teacher Reference Number)
- Your School URN (Unique Reference Number) or Organisation's Ofsted URN
Find your Teacher Reference Number if you've forgotten it.
- What should I prepare/consider before starting the application form?
Applications for our Autumn 2024 cohort will open in July 2024.
If you have already been in contact with one of our Delivery Partners, please continue to liaise with them to confirm your next steps.
You should also review the GOV.UK NPQ scholarship funding eligibility and/or either confirm with your school that they support your application and relevant costs or that you are willing to self-fund.
- How long will I wait to hear back about the outcome of my application?
Once the DfE registration portal opens, you will be able to access and submit your application. You will hear about the outcome within 15 working days of submitting your application.
On occasion, our selection team may ask for further information. If that happens, the 15 working days will reset from your new submission date.
- I have applied previously and failed the application screening – can I apply again?
We recommend you read our application guidance thoroughly before you submit your application.
If your application did not pass screening, you will have received guidance and feedback from our Selection team on how to improve your answers.
- If I fail my application, can I get feedback and apply again?
If your application does not pass screening on the first attempt, you will receive guidance and feedback from our Selection team on how to improve your answers and a chance to resubmit updated answers.
Although we cannot provide written feedback on each application, we would recommend that you review the guidance fully before you resubmit.