Applications open for Cultural Education Leadership 2026/27

7 April 2026

A New Direction and the UCL Centre for Educational Leadership are inviting London primary teachers to apply for the 2026/27 Cultural Education Leadership Programme, a year long opportunity designed for educators ready to lead meaningful change in how arts, culture and creativity are embedded across their school.

Open to London based teachers in state mainstream and SEND primary settings who have completed their ECT programme, the initiative supports participants to explore creative leadership, develop new approaches to cultural education, and build confidence in shaping whole‑school practice.

Across the programme, teachers will take part in curated sessions led by UCL experts, join inspiring workshops with peers, and access free visits to galleries, theatres and cultural venues.

Schools will receive up to £2,000 to cover teacher absence, plus access to new professional development, leadership resources, and strengthened links with cultural venues and the UCL Centre for Educational Leadership.

Key dates

  • Application deadline: Friday 22 May 2026, 5pm
  • Notification of outcome: Friday 12 June 2026, 5pm

Before applying, teachers must download and review the full programme description, application guidance, and the required Headteacher Commitment Form. Applications cannot be submitted without it, and late submissions will not be considered.

Why take part?

Participants will:

  • Learn from leading experts in cultural and educational leadership

  • Join a supportive cohort of like‑minded teachers

  • Access free cultural visits, resources and materials

  • Receive structured support to design and deliver a creative intervention in their school

  • Gain a certificate from the UCL Centre for Educational Leadership on completion

The programme is designed to help teachers develop as leaders regardless of seniority - building confidence, reflective practice, and the skills needed to champion cultural education across the curriculum.

For questions about the programme or application process, contact Laura Fuller, Senior Programme Manager, at laura.fuller@anewdirection.org.uk.

Apply today via the Primary Arts booking platform