Participants on the programme undertake:

• a self-evaluation task against the GTCS Standard for Headship
• a 360° feedback process with individualised coaching support
• learning at conferences for the national cohort
• Masters-level learning in the form of taught courses with one of seven university partners
• online supported study modules on the legislative and operational aspects of a headteacher role.

Throughout the programme, it is expected that participants will have the support of a headteacher mentor and for most, a local authority co-ordinator.

On successful completion of Into Headship, participants are awarded the Standard for Headship, which is a mandatory requirement for all new permanently appointed headteachers in Local Authority and grant-aided schools in Scotland.

Candidates will:

• develop and deepen the ability to critically reflect and enquire to enhance their strategic leadership practice
• develop their strategic leadership and management skills in practice as specified by the Standard for Headship in Scotland
• build and apply sound knowledge and understanding of strategic leadership and management practice and theory in the context of the role of headteacher
• design and initiate a strategic change initiative which will strengthen the school’s capability for improvement.

The programme is aimed at those teachers who aspire to achieving the post of headteacher within the next 2-3 years.

Teachers who have successfully completed the previous qualifications of the Scottish Qualification for Headship (SQH) and the Flexible Route to Headship (FRH) continue to hold the Standard for Headship.

The programme is delivered in partnership with seven universities across Scotland. Each local authority has an agreement in place with a university partner which enables close collaboration on the programme.

The programme is usually delivered through a mix of online learning, taught days and national conferences.

The recruitment for cohort 10 (2024-26) is now closed. Programme learning will begin with university induction sessions in June 2024 and will continue through until autumn 2025. On successful completion of the programme, participants will be awarded the Standard for Headship in Spring 2026.

The Scottish Government is committed to supporting teachers to participate in the Into Headship programme. It is anticipated that funding to support the fees will continue for the 2024 cohort, however this is subject to Scottish Ministers’ agreement.

There is no funding for cover.

Applications for Into Headship are now closed and will re-open in January 2025.

If you would like further information, please contact your local authority officer with responsibility for Professional Learning and Leadership or email EDSPLL@educationscotland.gov.scot

Professor Alma Harris, a member of the International Council of Education Advisers, conducted an external evaluation of Into Headship between April and August 2022. The executive summary highlights:

"Into Headship, is a real strength of the Scottish education system and a programme worthy of national and international recognition."

"The evidence from this evaluation underlines that the professionalism, commitment, and dedication of all those involved in the Into Headship programme is outstanding."

Read the National Into Headship Programme Evaluation Report (PDF)

The Into Headship National Programme Guidance has all information pertaining to the national Into Headship programme.