27/05/2026
New Professional Learning Programme for School Principals Announced
A new professional learning programme designed to support newly appointed and aspiring school principals has been announced by Education Minister Paul Givan following the award of a three-year contract.
Serving as the replacement for the previous Professional Qualification for Headship (PQH), the upcoming initiative will deliver a structured, evidence-informed curriculum. It will focus directly on the essential knowledge and skills needed by effective school leaders.
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."
The professional learning pathway will span 18 months and include a placement experience alongside two distinct leadership modules.
The Minister added: "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 details regarding the leadership scheme will be released during the 2026/27 autumn term.
Serving as the replacement for the previous Professional Qualification for Headship (PQH), the upcoming initiative will deliver a structured, evidence-informed curriculum. It will focus directly on the essential knowledge and skills needed by effective school leaders.
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.
"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."
The professional learning pathway will span 18 months and include a placement experience alongside two distinct leadership modules.
The Minister added: "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 details regarding the leadership scheme will be released during the 2026/27 autumn term.
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