What is the DfE Teacher Training Entitlement?

The Teacher Training Entitlement (TTE) was introduced as part of a Labour manifesto commitment, signalling a renewed investment in the development of teachers and leaders at every stage of their careers. While many will be familiar with the Early Career Framework (ECF) and National Professional Qualifications (NPQs), there has, until recently, been less clarity about what a broader entitlement for all staff might look like. 

The recent White Paper with its clear focus on inclusion, begins to set out this next phase. A clear theme running through the reforms is inclusion, and it is no surprise that the TTE is being shaped to support inclusive teaching and leadership as a core part of practice across all settings. Schools will recognise and support this need and intention.

From autumn 2026, the additional entitlement offer will begin to roll out through Teaching School Hubs. The first programmes are expected to include: 

• Reception Teaching (from autumn 2026)  
• Inclusive Teaching (from 2027)  
• Inclusive Leadership (from 2027). 

Full details are still emerging, the programmes are expected to be grounded in evidence-informed frameworks and designed as sustained professional development, likely running over two terms in a format similar to NPQs, although without the summative assessment. This points to a continued focus on depth, practical application and meaningful change in classrooms and leadership practice. We know that the Reception Teaching programme is likely to have a strong focus on adaptive teaching as in the Initial Teacher Training and Early Career Framework (DfE, 2024) coupled with a focus on assessment to support early identification.  

We will be working with our valued partner University College London (UCL) to deliver this programme locally and will also work in alongside Whitkirk Primary School in Leeds to ensure we are aligned with the new RISE Reception Networks programme. More information on this new exciting support for early years can be found here. 

As a Teaching School Hub, we expect to share further details on programme content, delivery and how to register during the summer term. We will communicate updates directly and via our Hub website. 

Alongside the TTE, we will also be working with the DfE on the developing RISE regional offer and will continue to signpost opportunities for schools as these become available via the Universal Offer. 

The next NPQ cohort has been announced for Autumn 2026 and registration for DfE funding will open on Tuesday 23 June. As in previous years, places are likely to be limited, with now only one cohort per year. The Leadership NPQs: NPQH, NPQSENCO and now also NPQSL will be fully funded to all schools. Eligibility criteria applies for the specialist NPQS. More information on our NPQs, delivered in partnership with UCL are available via our website including a link to an Expression of Interest which will keep you informed of updates. We will be in touch as soon as timelines are confirmed to support your planning on every strand of the DfE professional development offer.