To ask the Minister of Education for an update on the replacement for the Professional Qualification for Headship.

My Department has been working in collaboration with key stakeholders including practitioners and representatives of the various Arm’s-Length Bodies and Higher Educational Institutions to inform the development of a new leadership programme for aspiring Principals, which will replace the former “Professional Qualification for Headship” (PQH) programme. This has been informed by extensive engagement with other jurisdictions and their experience with similar programmes.

Subject to securing the necessary resources in 2024-25 and beyond, this programme will be further developed, in collaboration with key stakeholders, in order to ensure aspiring Principals are equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to handle the diverse and demanding responsibilities of school leadership.