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The Application Process

PQH (NI)

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Who can apply for PQH (NI)?

Qualified teachers who have successfully completed their EPD and are on the final pathway to their first headship. Applicants should be highly motivated to headship, and be ready to apply for principal posts on graduation. In other words, when you apply for PQH (NI):

You should be no more than 12 - 18 months from a headship post, and
Your aspiration for your next post should be that of principal.

In effect you will become a ‘trainee headteacher’.

If you are already working in a school leadership role as part of your ongoing performance management, you will be discussing your career aspirations with your current principal or line manager. Whatever your circumstances, seeking feedback from others and reviewing evidence associated with your performance management will help you think about your achievements, strengths and areas for development in relation to the National Standards for Headteachers (Northern Ireland edition).

A successful applicant not employed in a school needs to be able to identify a school in which to conduct activities required within PQH (NI).

As well as taking advice you should undertake the self-evaluation exercises available in the section entitled ‘Are you ready for Headship?’.

PQH (NI) will ensure that those candidates who achieve the qualification are thoroughly prepared for the demanding role of headship. Employers will know that those holding the qualification have met the standards required to embark upon headship. It will give aspiring heads the confidence, skills and professional knowledge needed to deliver the best for pupils, staff, parents, governors and community.

Before you apply:

Visit the Are you ready for Headship? section
Read the National Standards for Headteachers(Northern Ireland edition)
Learn more about the challenges of headship today
Talk to your principal or line manager about your aspirations and obtain their support
Engage with online activities and resources to help you gauge your readiness to apply
Attend one of the Information sessions listed below:

Date	Venue
Thursday 9th September	Armagh City Hotel, Armagh
Monday 13th September	Mellon Country Hotel, Omagh
Tuesday 14th September	Park Avenue Hotel, Belfast
Wednesday 15th September	Tullylagan Hotel, Cookstown
Thursday 16th September	Radisson Roe Hotel, Limavady
Wednesday 29th September	Lagan Valley Island, Lisburn
Thursday 30th September	Park Avenue Hotel, Belfast

Each session commences at 3.30pm.

Please note: Applications can only be made online through the 'Make an Online Application' section.

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