Development Programmes

We help our members develop and become centres of excellence through bespoke leadership programmes for special schools.

In the last year alone, we have supported over 30 leaders from NASS member schools through four NASS-sponsored programmes, including social care leadership, nurturing news heads training and School Improvement Partner training.

Below are details of our current programmes.

 

NASS Leadership Development Programme 2025

January to June 2025

  • Do you want time and space to develop yourself as a leader?
  • Do you want to focus on the key issues that arise in the day-to-day life of a special school leader?
  • Do you want to learn alongside others in similar roles and benefit from their experiences?
  • Do you want to move beyond formal leadership qualifications to a programme that helps you ‘walk the walk’ of leadership?

If so, the NASS and Caboodle Education’s 2025 Leadership Development Programme is for you!

 

From January 2025, NASS will be running the next cohort of this very successful leadership development programme. There will be six face-to-face sessions in Solihull between January and June, with ongoing support for delegates. NASS is sponsoring part of the costs of attendance. Please see the the flyer for further details. Please note, the programme is likely to be of most benefit for those in teaching roles but it is open to others in Senior Leadership Team roles – particularly if you aspire to lead a school.

Applications should be sent to cdorer@nasschools.org.uk and must be received by 5pm on Wednesday 23rd October 2024. Applications will be assessed by NASS staff and Caboodle Education. Successful schools will be notified on or before the morning of Monday 4th November.

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Reimagining your workforce development – a partnership with SAILS and Glass House Lab

Timeframe: 6 days between October 2024 and June 2025

In partnership with SAILS and Glass House Lab, we have launched an exciting new programme to support special schools to retain and develop good staff and improve recruitment.

We believe this is the first programme to think about the SEND workforce in this way and, as a result, we have been able to secure partnerships with psychometrics providers which will give participants access to psychometric testing at a fraction of the usual cost. This is an exciting opportunity which a number of NASS members have already signed up to so don’t miss your chance to join them!

The programme is a mixture of online sessions, individual support and access to psychometric assessment tools.

Find out more:

 

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The NASS and Talking Heads Retreat, 25th to 26th April 2025

Nurture and Nourish: Taking the Inside Out – Bringing the Outside In

An opportunity for school leaders to escape their busy lives to spend time in a supportive environment, immersed in nature and in the company of peers.

Experience the EcoSensory model of practice, a nature-based neuro-sequential approach to regulation, connection, and engagement. Gain benefits for you personally and for your school.

To find out more about the two day programme aims, outcomes and timetable, please read the flyer below:

There are just 12 places available. Book your place here.

 

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Leadership in Care 2024 Programme

Applications now closed.

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School Improvement Partner Training 2024/25

Applications are now closed.

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NASS Advanced Special and AP Headship Development Programme 2024

Applications are now closed.