Below are details of our current or most recent programmes.
NASS School Improvement Partner Training 2026/27
September 2026 to May 2027
Applications now open! Deadline Monday 16th March 2026
We are excited to announce that NASS is now running the highly regarded School Improvement Partner (SIP) Training Programme, previously managed by Mulberry Bush. At a time when strengthening and evidencing quality in the special school sector is more important than ever, this programme is a unique opportunity for experienced leaders to develop the skills, knowledge, and confidence to become effective SIPs.
Running from September 2026 to May 2027, the programme combines six days of expert-led training at Charney Manor in Oxfordshire with two placement days. You’ll also join the NASS SIP network, giving you ongoing support and professional development beyond the course.
This training not only strengthens your own school’s leadership and improvement practices, but also gives you the opportunity to support other schools and share best practice. You’ll develop practical skills in structuring SIP visits, working with staff and governors, collecting and using evidence, and coaching leaders effectively.
NASS members benefit from a significant reduction in course fees as part of their membership.
Spaces are limited to 18 delegates, and the deadline for applications is 5pm, Monday 16th March 2026. For more information or to request an application form, please contact admin@nasschools.org.uk.
If you are a NASS member seeking support from a NASS SIP, please visit our Member Zone to see our network of current SIPs available to provide support.
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NASS Senior Leadership Course and Network 2026/7
Applications open!
Strong, well-supported leadership is critical to the future of special schools and alternative provision (AP). Yet we are acutely aware of the pressures faced by senior leaders in special and AP settings, and of how little support there is for their career development, ongoing job satisfaction, and well-being.
In response, we are pleased to introduce the NASS Senior Leadership Course and Network, a new programme designed exclusively for headteachers, deputy headteachers and assistant headteachers working in special and AP settings.
The course and network will provide a mix of support, networking opportunities, leadership training and up-to-date research. There will be a strong emphasis on the development of coaching skills and on using these skills to support colleagues within the network.
The course and network will run from October 2026 to May 2027, in two groups, each participating in three virtual meetings and three face-to-face days.
Our three course tutors – Deirdre Fitzpatrick, Dominic Salles and Andy Lole – already run several successful courses for special school and AP leaders. The success of these courses demonstrates a clear desire among senior leaders to engage in further professional learning and to connect with like-minded colleagues.
For more information and an application form, please email: admin@nasschools.org.uk
NASS members benefit from a significant reduction in fees as part of their membership.
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Coaching offer for NASS members – ready to take your leadership to the next level?
The Glass House Leadership Lab is offering discounted rates on 1:1 personalised coaching sessions to support you in enhancing your leadership and the impact of your team. In a recent guest blog for NASS, Dr Matt Silver, Founder and CEO of The Glass House Leadership Lab, shared how transformative coaching can be for special schools, its leaders and communities. Read Matt’s blog
For further details about the offer for NASS members, please read the flyer below.
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NASS Senior Leadership Development Programme 2026/7
Applications to open soon.
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Future-Readying Your Workforce Course, starting November 2025
Applications for the second cohort now closed.
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