Leadership and Development opportunities
NCETM School Development Lead programme
The application window for the School Development Lead Programme starting in 2026/27 is open.
Develop your approach to leading change in schools other than your own.
Who can take part?
The programme is for colleagues working with school and subject leaders in a school or group of schools other than their own. It will benefit those with significant experience of developing maths leadership capacity, or those newer to the role. Usually, participants will have completed the NCETM PD Lead Programme and have some experience of working directly with senior leaders outside of their own setting.
Participants must commit to the full programme and will need the support of the headteacher of their own school and/or MAT.
Learn what's involved in the application process by downloading this Information Sheet.
What is involved?
This programme is designed to enable leaders of maths school development to enhance leadership capacity and capability in the schools they support. It will provide regional support through workshops (face-to-face, run regionally across England, and online), practice development activities, and an online community.
Participants design and lead a school development initiative, aimed at supporting the development of school and subject leaders, as they explore, prepare and deliver changes to their setting’s maths provision.
What will you learn?
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You will develop your knowledge of a range of maths school development strategies and how to use them effectively
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You will strengthen your knowledge of the evidence base that underpins school development
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You will work alongside senior and subject leaders to support sustainable implementation and build capacity
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You will improve the skills and self-awareness required in the role of school development lead
What is the cost?
The School Development Lead Programme is fully funded by the Maths Hubs Programme so is free to participants and their schools.
How do I apply?
The application window for the School Development Lead Programme starting in 2026/27 is open.
To apply, please visit the NCETM website.
The application window closes on 23 April 2026.
Feedback from School Development Lead Programme participant
As a School Improvement Lead at Achieving for Children, I support schools across Kingston and Richmond to enhance mathematics teaching standards and implement sustainable curriculum development.
Why did you sign up for the SD Lead programme?
I wanted to master the EEF implementation guidance and acquire robust tools to ensure professional development translates directly into measurable improvements in classroom practice and pupil outcomes.
What impact has the programme had on your role?
It has shifted my approach toward a more sustained, strategic support model—empowering mathematics leaders to design and deliver their own high-quality CPD rather than simply receiving it.
Why would you recommend others to apply?